I, Claudius/The Epic That Never Was
Starring: Derek Jacobi, John Hurt, Siān Phillips, Brian Blessed, George BakerDirector: Herbert Wise
Studio: Image Entertainment
MPAA Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Format: Color, Dolby, DVD, NTSC
Running Time: 669 minutes
DVD Release: December 2nd 2008
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DVD Review
Roman history comes alive in this magnificent 13-part series. I, Claudius ranks among the most acclaimed productions in television history. Tracing the lives of the last of the Roman emperors, it's an epic of ruthless ambition, shocking debauchery and murderous intrigue set in one of history's most fascinating eras. Bearing witness to the saga is Claudius, whose stutter and limp have marked him a fool--yet whom prophesies have foretold will one day rule Rome.
This collector's edition set includes a unique documentary feature, The Epic That Never Was (1965, 71 min.), a remarkable behind-the-scenes look at Alexander Korda's ill-fated 1937 screen adaptation of I, Claudius. Starring Merle Oberon and Charles Laughton, the chronicle of this uncompleted masterpieces is an unforgettable coda to one of the greatest stories ever told.
User Reviews
This series is the BBC at its best - Rating: 5/5
This drama series is the BBC at its best. As a child, I was absolutely enthralled by this program. It spurred me on to work harder at Latin and gave me a life-long love of Rome and the transition from the Republic to the Empire. At $25 for the complete series, this DVD is tremendous value.
In some respects, the series is reassuring in that it highlights the immutability of human nature. It's an absolutely superb series.
Roman Madness - Rating: 5/5
After you have seen this production, you can see why Masterpiece Theater has the excellent reputation for it's productions, particularly the early years. You have to be familiar with going to plays to appreciate the style it is done in, as it is like going to a London West End play. The new generation who has never been exposed would probably find it difficult to watch.
What a treat to see Derek Jacobi, William Hurt, and all excellent theater people in this production. A diabolical plot of Rome gone mad whose character perform incest, poisoning, and murder makes you glad that you did not live in that period.
I, Claudius - Rating: 5/5
I thought it was an amazing piece of work. Superb. I had seen it on TV when it first ran and loved it. I'm proud to own it now.
No close-captioned!!! - Rating: 1/5
There is no close-caption in the DVD... if you have hearing problems you will be unlucky.
historical - Rating: 5/5
I Claudius, is a classic, well acted and great story. If you like history, you will like this, it is a true story
