Colosseum: A Gladiator's Story

While the box-office hit Gladiator benefits from a huge budget and the star presence of Russell Crowe, Colosseum: A Gladiator's Story has the distinct advantage of historical accuracy. Originally broadcast on the Discovery Channel, this remarkable BBC TV production tells the story of Verus, one of two victors in the only gladiatorial battle that was ever described in detail (by the Roman poet Martial in 80 A.D.). Recruited from slavery, Verus trains in gladiator's school, rises to favor among wealthy Romans, and ultimately battles his best friend Priscus to a crowd-pleasing draw in the inaugural games of the Colosseum, the construction of which is shown in fascinating detail. Combining history-laden narration, diary-like voiceovers from Verus's perspective, and well-cast actors speaking authentic Latin, this sumptuous production is both dramatically involving and exacting in detail. Just as convincing--and just as impressive in its use of cutting-edge digital effects--is the 50-minute bonus program "Pompeii: The Final Day," which chronicles the decimation of Pompeii during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius on August 24, 79 A.D. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Shannon)