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From behind bars Demetrius is forced to watch. Helpless,
he prays to God to release her. She dies in a gladiator's
arms, her innocence unsullied.
The following day a grief stricken Demetrius kills all the
gladiators who took part in the death of Lucia, renounces
God, and attracts the amorous attention of Messalina (Susan
Hayward).
The Emperor Caligula (Jay Robinson) wants the robe, believing
it will make him immortal, orders Demetrius to find it.
Paul (Michael Rennie) surrenders the robe to save his flock
from slaughter. Caligula goes completely mad and is assassinated
by his Praetorian Guard.
Claudius (Barry Jones) is proclaimed and Messalina, his wife,
becomes Empress. Debra is restored to life and Demetrius is
reconciled with God.
After a recent gladiator movie some would expect a tame old-fashioned
affair. Not so; if a viewer has enough imagination to visualise
the end result of a trident thrust into a naked chest, a struggling
female laid on a couch in a men's room and, wine, women and
dance in a remote country villa.
There are several standout actors in this film. Jay Robinson
as Caligula. He struts and screams, poses and preens, and
- meets his end like a bewildered child. Susan Hayward as
Messalina. She captures and embodies the spirit of; ruthless
ambition, quick wit, and sex appeal. Barry Jones as Claudius.
His portrayal of the vague, spineless and cunning uncle and
husband is so effective that he must have read the Robert
Graves novel.
Good colour, excellent soundtrack.
My favourite scene is in the arena when the beasts are set
upon Demetrius; the tigers are magnificently fearsome.
Conclusion: 85% Extras: 50%.
Continued:
DVD details at a glance >
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