Spartacus: Gods of the Arena

The moment I saw this series being featured in the newspapers a few years back, I knew I had to watch it. Period dramas/ series always appeal to me. Perhaps it’s the charm of bygone eras now so foreign to us.

Spartacus: Gods of the Arena is a six-episode mini series prequel to Spartacus: Blood and Sand. It portrays the ascent to power of the House of Batiatus through its champion gladiator Gannicus (Dustin Clare) who won his freedom after winning against Solonius’ gladiators in the arena encircled by fire. The series offers the background of major characters. For instance, it is important to see here the abuses and dehumanization suffered by the slaves of Batiatus in order to please and court men of power and for the House of Batiatus to secure a place in the games. A prime example is the young servant girl Diona who became a sex object for the pleasure of Batiatus’ guests. The series also provides ample opportunity for viewers to probe the personalities of characters. For instance, the cunning of Ashur to save his own skin, and the treachery of Lucretia who will do anything to maintain her status in the household.

Over-all, the series reminds me of the movie 300 with all the blood and gore. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, obviously targeted at male viewers, is packed with action not just in the sands of the arena, but also in the scandalous house of Batiatus where sex seems to be the norm.

Next on my to-watch list is Spartacus: Blood and Sand, with the hope of finally seeing Spartacus.