DVD PICK OF THE WEEK: "Rome: The Complete First Season"
HBO's lavish production about the rise and fall of Julius Caesar is worth checking out from a dramatic standpoint, though I haven't seen the DVD and can't tell you about the various featurettes.
Much of the story is told from the point of view of two officers in the Roman Army, who find themselves mixed in situations with Rome's key movers and shakers, including Caesar (Ciaran Hinds). "Rome" traces Caesar's rise to power, and the first season ends with his assasination. With graphic displays of sex and violence, "Rome" isn't for the kids, but continues HBO's long-standing trend of outstanding television.
SCENES FROM OUR NEXT EPISODE: Coming up next week, TV Guy reviews two of the most anticipated pilots of the year, sings the praises of poker on TV, and tells you why the Emmys got it more wrong this year than in any other year — which is saying a lot. Don't forget, the new TV season kicks off Monday with the return of "Prison Break" (Fox, Monday, 8 p.m.)
Friday, August 18, 2006
Friends, Romans, Countrymen
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2 comments:
Without a doubt Rome is one of the best shows to hit TV in quite a while.
It is an excellent take on the Rome of the civil wars. The portrayal of the city itself is an effective narrative blend of modern interpretation/connection and idiosyncratic cultural juxtaposition. The street vendor announces bread distribution with commercial sponsors. At the same time, the constant presence of slaves and their social roles and functions is specifically Roman and authentic enough to lend credence to the dramtic interpretation.
In short, the show rocks. Phil pegged it.
Thanks Tadkil, and welcome to the blog.
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