Well truth be told after Blood and Sand I was not happy with this retroactive (prequel) even though I was fully aware of the reasons for hurriedly rushing it to production.
Apologies Dominus.
While the absence of Andy W. does cost the production that "instant connection" he had with viewers (one of the most sympatico actors I have ever seen, period) the producers brought a "fierce determination to purpose" and forged this into a first-class series despite absence of star.
The rules of drama have not changed since the days of Ancient Greece or Rome. If you can build and build and build some more, the audience will naturally follow. And if they follow, you own them.
The multiple climaxes here (in the arena, in the chambers underneath, in the sick room) are mesmerizing. I was hooked.
And, being hooked, I realized I should amend the originally harsh review I gave this sub-series. All things considered, it is quite spectacular.
Special mention to Marisa Ramirez. Though it was clear the camera loved her, I began to count the actual minutes of screen time and realized that she was sometimes getting more exposure than the stars. Her beauty, stunning in its own right, adds just right balance of exhibitionism and innocence to a tale of ancient Rome. It may be a supporting role, but it is one for the ages.
Ex-Buffy alumnus Steven McKnight proves that, like the men in the actual arena, he can hold his own under personal challenge.
Kudos
