Watch Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire

Not Rated
2008
1 Season
7.9 (1,890)

Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is a gripping historical drama series that delves into the fascinating history of ancient Rome, from its beginnings as a small city-state to its eventual collapse and the fall of the Roman Empire. Combining top-notch acting, stunning cinematography, and meticulous attention to detail, this show offers an immersive and engaging journey through one of the most important periods in world history. Narrated by Sean Pertwee, Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire tells the story of Rome through the eyes of some of its most notable figures, including Julius Caesar (played by Michael Sheen), Augustus (Simon Dutton), Nero (Alex Ferns), Mark Antony (Crispin Redman), and Constantine (Karl Johnson). Through their struggles, triumphs, and tragedies, we see how Rome grew from a small republic to a mighty empire, and how its hubris and corruption ultimately led to its downfall. The show is divided into ten episodes, each focusing on a different period or event in Roman history, from the Punic Wars to the fall of Constantinople. Each episode is expertly crafted, with a clear and engaging storyline, compelling characters, and plenty of action and intrigue. There are epic battles, political machinations, romance, betrayal, and everything in between, making for a thrilling and captivating viewing experience. One of the standout features of Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is its cast of talented actors, many of whom are recognizable from other film and television projects. Michael Sheen delivers a standout performance as Julius Caesar, capturing both his charisma and his dangerous ambition. Simon Dutton is equally impressive as Augustus, bringing a quiet intensity to the role that perfectly captures the character's cunning and determination. Other notable performances include those by James Wilby as Tiberius, Hugh Ross as Caligula, David de Keyser as Vespasian, and Trevor Cooper as Diocletian. The supporting cast is also excellent, with appearances by familiar faces such as Jonathan Coy, Jonathan Hyde, and Peter Firth. Another strength of Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is its attention to detail and historical accuracy. The show's writers consulted with leading historians to ensure that the events depicted are as accurate as possible, and the set designers and costume department did an incredible job of recreating ancient Rome in all its glory. From the bustling streets of the city to the epic battles on the battlefield, every scene is meticulously crafted and visually stunning. The show's use of CGI is also impressive, seamlessly blending with the live-action footage to create a vivid and immersive world that feels truly authentic. Overall, Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is a must-see for anyone interested in history, drama, or epic storytelling. It is a tour de force of television programming, combining top-notch acting, breathtaking visuals, and gripping storytelling into a package that is sure to captivate viewers from start to finish. Whether you are a fan of ancient Rome or just looking for a great show to binge-watch, this series is not to be missed.

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Seasons

19. The Last Emperor

January 1, 1970

In the middle of the 5th century, as the Empire fights a losing battle against its formidable barbarian opponents, one Roman named Orestes finds service in the court of Attila the Hun.

17. The Barbarian General

January 1, 1970

By the end of the 4th century, Romans and barbarians live together uneasily, a situation that often explodes into violence. When Emperor Theodosius enlists the Goths as mercenaries, he relies on his trusted general to lead.

13. Rise and Fall of an Empire: The Last Emperor

December 22, 2008

In the middle of the 5th century, as the Empire fights a losing battle against its formidable barbarian opponents, one Roman named Orestes finds service in the court of Attila the Hun.

12. Rise and Fall of an Empire: The Puppet Master

December 15, 2008

Rome is a mere shadow of its former self. Gone is the superior civilization and great expanses of land. Now, Roman rulers are at the mercy of their barbarian invaders, offering them power and territory in exchange for peace.

11. Rise and Fall of an Empire: The Barbarian General

December 8, 2008

By the end of the fourth century, Romans and barbarians live together uneasily in the empire, a situation that often explodes into violence.

10. Constantine

September 22, 2008

The civil wars of the 3rd century are finally ended by Emperor Diocletian. In the eastern court and army of this powerful emperor, a young Constantine receives the training of a future leader.

9. Rise and Fall of an Empire: The Soldier's Emperor

November 24, 2008

Near the end of the third century, civil war has torn the empire apart and left its borders vulnerable to barbarian invasion.

8. Rise and Fall of an Empire: Wrath of the Gods

November 17, 2008

In the beginning of the 3rd century, Rome is in crisis. Ravaged by civil war and foreign invasions it now faces an even greater challenge, the new religion of Christianity.

7. Rise and Fall of an Empire: Rebellion and Betrayal

November 10, 2008

It is 162 AD. Marcus Aurelius inherits the empire at its peak. Peace and prosperity have reigned for a hundred years, and the imperial boundaries stretch from the Irish Sea to the sands of Syria.

6. The Dacian Wars

August 25, 2008

When Trajan was proclaimed emperor, he set out to rebuild the troubled Roman Empire and lived to see it reach the maximum extent of its power.

5. Rise and Fall of an Empire: The Invasion of Britain

October 27, 2008

It is 47 AD. The new emperor Claudius is considered by many to be the village idiot. He can only hang onto his throne by waging a spectacular conquest.

4. Rise and Fall of an Empire: The Forest of Death

October 20, 2008

As the Roman Empire expands its reach into what is now Germany, its legions are faced with ferocious Germanic tribesmen.

3. Rise and Fall of an Empire: Julius Caesar

October 13, 2008

It is 60 BC. Over-powerful generals and money corrupt politicians run the Roman Republic. The empire churns with civil war, as violence and murder run rampant.

2. Rise and Fall of an Empire: Spartacus

October 6, 2008

When Roman generals Pompey and Crassus, lead their mighty legions of soldiers and mercenaries into the lands surrounding Italy, neither could anticipate the turmoil caused by one bold mercenary: a Thracian warrior named Spartacus.

1. The First Barbarian War

August 29, 2008

It is 113 BC. Rome is a republic, a small empire clinging to the rim of the Mediterranean. Though it is a democracy in name and spirit, a man there still must be rich and from the noble class to hold the highest offices, both political and military.

101. Caligula: 1400 Days of Terror

October 9, 2012

His reign of terror lasted just 1400 days, but even today, everyone knows his name. Examine controversial new theories about the man who ruled the world's mightiest Empire with sadistic brutality.

102. Roman Vice

September 6, 2005

The flowering of the Roman Empire saw incomparable power and civilization - and at the same time, depravity on an unparalleled scale. Explore how good and evil lived side by side.

103. Pompeii Secrets Revealed

January 31, 2005

Josh Bernstein visits the Bay of Naples to try to understand exactly how the eruption of Mount Vesuvius unfolded in 79 A.D. - and why it took the people of Pompeii almost entirely by surprise.

104. Gladiators: Blood Sport

December 15, 2008

From the depths of the vicious and magnificent Flavian amphitheater where gladiators fought for their lives, peel back the layers of the gladiator's triumph - and his demise.

105. Pompeii: Buried Alive

February 2, 1996

Carefully uncovered from molten rock and ashes, Pompeii is one of the world's most well-preserved archaeological sites. Follow in the footsteps of the team continuing their quest to unearth the treasures of Pompeii.

107. Rome's Lost Harbor

February 11, 1996

The Roman city of Ostia was once a vital harbor town. Today, Ostia is covered in sand. Examine the reasons for its demise and explore recent excavations, which unearthed well-preserved ruins that rival those of Pompeii.

109. Spartacus

October 6, 2008

When Roman generals Pompey and Crassus lead their mighty legions of soldiers and mercenaries into the lands surrounding Italy, neither anticipates the turmoil caused by one bold mercenary.

110. Julius Caesar

October 13, 2008

Julius Caesar, desperate for fame and honor, embarks on a brutal decade-long campaign to annex Gaul and build his own reputation. His aristocratic rivals try to stop him, but he is an expert manipulator.

114. Wrath Of The Gods

November 17, 2008

In the beginning of the 3rd century, Rome is in crisis. Ravaged by civil war and foreign invasions, it now faces an even greater challenge in the new religion of Christianity.

115. The Soldier's Emperor

September 15, 2008

Near the end of the 3rd century, civil war has torn the empire apart and left its borders vulnerable to barbarian invasion. Romans living on the eastern and western frontiers, far from Rome, are left to defend themselves.

118. The Puppet Master

October 6, 2008

In 450 A.D., Rome is a mere shadow of its former self. Now, Roman rulers are at the mercy of their barbarian invaders, offering them power and territory in exchange for peace.

120. Weapons Of The Gladiators

February 23, 2003

The weapons of Roman gladiators reflected gods, barbarians, and 16 different types of idealized warriors. Did the extraordinary styles and skills developed in the arena have any practical purpose?

Description

Narrated by Sean Pertwee, Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire tells the story of Rome through the eyes of some of its most notable figures, including Julius Caesar (played by Michael Sheen), Augustus (Simon Dutton), Nero (Alex Ferns), Mark Antony (Crispin Redman), and Constantine (Karl Johnson). Through their struggles, triumphs, and tragedies, we see how Rome grew from a small republic to a mighty empire, and how its hubris and corruption ultimately led to its downfall.

The show is divided into ten episodes, each focusing on a different period or event in Roman history, from the Punic Wars to the fall of Constantinople. Each episode is expertly crafted, with a clear and engaging storyline, compelling characters, and plenty of action and intrigue. There are epic battles, political machinations, romance, betrayal, and everything in between, making for a thrilling and captivating viewing experience.

One of the standout features of Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is its cast of talented actors, many of whom are recognizable from other film and television projects. Michael Sheen delivers a standout performance as Julius Caesar, capturing both his charisma and his dangerous ambition. Simon Dutton is equally impressive as Augustus, bringing a quiet intensity to the role that perfectly captures the character's cunning and determination.

Other notable performances include those by James Wilby as Tiberius, Hugh Ross as Caligula, David de Keyser as Vespasian, and Trevor Cooper as Diocletian. The supporting cast is also excellent, with appearances by familiar faces such as Jonathan Coy, Jonathan Hyde, and Peter Firth.

Another strength of Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is its attention to detail and historical accuracy. The show's writers consulted with leading historians to ensure that the events depicted are as accurate as possible, and the set designers and costume department did an incredible job of recreating ancient Rome in all its glory.

From the bustling streets of the city to the epic battles on the battlefield, every scene is meticulously crafted and visually stunning. The show's use of CGI is also impressive, seamlessly blending with the live-action footage to create a vivid and immersive world that feels truly authentic.

Overall, Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire is a must-see for anyone interested in history, drama, or epic storytelling. It is a tour de force of television programming, combining top-notch acting, breathtaking visuals, and gripping storytelling into a package that is sure to captivate viewers from start to finish. Whether you are a fan of ancient Rome or just looking for a great show to binge-watch, this series is not to be missed.