Why Haven't Any Production Companies Made an Epic TV Series or Film Series on the History of Rome?

Ancient Rome is a treasure trove of history and drama, yet it often feels like the narrative repeats itself in Hollywood. Why, in an era where there are seemingly endless TV series and movies about the Romans, have major production companies not ventured into creating epic narratives that delve into the rich and varied history before the Punic Wars?

Why This Content Is Slightly Different

The reasons behind this underrepresentation of early Roman history in major entertainment productions are multifaceted. It's not that there's a lack of material; it's more about the market trends and audience preferences. History buffs and general viewers both enjoy stories set during the height of the Roman Empire, but there is less appetite for narratives that explore the earlier, less well-known eras.

A Unique Take on Ancient Rome

One notable exception to this trend is an anime series that offers a fresh perspective on the period. Unlike traditional Hollywood cues—such as dark lighting and British accents—this series approaches the subject matter in a unique and engaging way. Despite the lack of concrete evidence in the form of pictures, the point is clear: there is a tremendous amount of untapped potential in the condensed, likely fictitious history before the Punic Wars.

Is it Boring?

Have you ever noticed how many British and North American films and TV series are set in the Byzantine period, the Abbasid Caliphate, or the Ethiopian empire (Abyssinia)? It appears that there's an overemphasis on Ancient Rome, which risks becoming repetitive and stale. Films and series that focus on the same storylines about conquests and emperors can become predictable and, ultimately, boring.

The Lack of Variety in Roman Stories

While ancient history enthusiasts will undoubtedly find value in these rehashed stories, it's important to recognize that the Romans were a complex civilization, and their history is far more nuanced and varied. The Senate's conquests and the familiar broader narratives are not the only stories to be told. There are countless other aspects of Roman life and history that could inspire compelling narratives.

Box Office Performances and Costs

Another reason why production companies may avoid ambitious projects about early Roman history is the financial risk. Historical movies tend to underperform at the box office and can be incredibly costly to produce. Films such as The Last Legion, Centurion, and The Eagle demonstrate that even with the right stars and production value, these projects can still end up drowning in production costs, underperforming financially.

Paradigm-Shifting Announcements

However, there is some good news. Legendary director Ridley Scott, known for his masterpiece Gladiator (2000), is reportedly working on a sequel to that film, which is set to enter development once he finishes his upcoming movie about Napoleon's rise to power. Additionally, Joaquin Phoenix is set to take the lead in this project.

The romance of early Rome and the potential to bring to life a diverse and engaging narrative, combined with the reputational and financial risks, have likely influenced the decision-making of major production companies. However, the appetite for intriguing historical storytelling remains strong, and the potential for reinterpreting and exploring early Roman history remains vast and exciting.