HBO's Rome Did Game of Thrones Better

The Lead

A sprawling cast of richly flawed heroes, epic stakes, elaborate sets, and a family-man hero whose definition of good is skewed by the cruel world he lives in – HBO's Rome had all the ingredients of a blockbuster hit, just like Game of Thrones. However, Rome did it better.

The Event Details

Rome was one of the most expensive TV shows ever made when it launched in 2005; its two-season run was shot on a massive, immersive outdoor recreation of the ancient city in Italy’s famous Cinecittà studios, and spared no expense on costumes, props or fake blood. The show chronicled an empire at its peak and the people who sought to rule it, featuring big hitters of history like Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, Brutus, and Cleopatra as ambitious, power-hungry, and unflinchingly flawed characters.

The Character Analysis

Rome's greatest strength was its focus on normal people, like foot soldiers Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo, who navigate the complexities of Roman history while trying to settle back into civilian life. Their ride or die friendship is the heart of the show; loyal to one another to a brutal, and often murderous, degree.

The Impact Analysis

The show's portrayal of everyday life in Rome – how they lived, loved, ate, slept, worked, and prayed in a city that feels both alien and deeply familiar – allows viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The show's exploration of themes such as power, loyalty, and human nature makes it a standout in the world of historical dramas.

The Prediction

Two decades after its initial release, Rome remains a rewatchable and compelling series that continues to captivate audiences. Its influence can be seen in many modern TV shows, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest TV series of all time.