By: Alex Phuong (A Toast) –
The historical epic has always been a longtime favorite for cinephiles and the filmmakers who make them. Some of the greatest films of all time are historical dramas, including Gone with the Wind (1939) and Ben-Hur (1959). Films about the Roman Empire have captivated audiences ever since the silent film era, and its rich history oftentimes forms the basis for some of the best films ever made. One of the greatest examples has been Spartacus.
A Toast!
The recipient of four Academy Awards, this is truly a film as epic as the historical Roman Empire. Despite the fall of Rome historically, this film captures its history passionately. Kirk Douglas delivers what could have been his greatest performance as the eponymous Spartacus even though he passed away on February 5, 2020. Peter Ustinov definitely deserved his Academy Award through his portrayal of Batiatus, the shrewd owner of a gladiatorial school against whom Spartacus rebelled. Since this is a historical epic, the film obviously deserved the Oscars it won for its production design, cinematography, and costume design. Alex North’s original score also adds drama to this compelling drama (pun intended).
Verdict
Gladiator might have been hailed as the “Best Picture” of the year 2000, but Spartacus will always remain a classic because of how it portrayed classical history on a grandiose scale.
Spartacus (1960) Bonus Drinking Game
Take a Drink: for every epic moment in this monumental achievement in filmmaking
Drink a Shot: for every repetition of the famous line, “I’m Spartacus!”
And Cheers: to Spartacus himself!
