Disappointing

Rating: Null/10 (7 May 2000)

As a work of fiction, this would be a truly great film. However, this is based on actual events and twists them beyond recognition. Commodus had been co-emperor with his father for 3 years prior to his death, not the actions of a man who planned to hand the empire to another. And no, Rome did not become a Republic again after Commodus was assassinated.
Though his sister Lucilla did indeed plot against him in 182, her plot failed and she was executed. Commodus was Caesar for 12 years (from 180 to 192) but was finally assassinated by a combination of poisoning and strangling.
If it is to be fiction, then use fictional characters. This is the worst adaptation of history that I have seen since El Cid. This film only contributes to the ignorance of history that already plagues America.
However, if you are one of those who don't know history, you might find this to be a great epic.