1 00:00:09,718 --> 00:00:11,470 2 00:00:11,553 --> 00:00:15,474 3 00:00:48,674 --> 00:00:49,716 Commodus. 4 00:00:50,968 --> 00:00:53,011 I don't know how things have gone so far. 5 00:00:55,097 --> 00:00:56,431 There have been mistakes. 6 00:00:57,474 --> 00:00:58,392 Unlucky breaks. 7 00:00:58,934 --> 00:01:01,812 But the idea that I'm somehow behind all this... 8 00:01:03,814 --> 00:01:04,898 it's insane. 9 00:01:06,984 --> 00:01:08,819 These were freak accidents, 10 00:01:09,653 --> 00:01:10,821 one after the other. 11 00:01:10,904 --> 00:01:12,990 No one could have prevented them. 12 00:01:13,407 --> 00:01:17,202 The plague was a freak accident. Without question, Emperor. 13 00:01:17,286 --> 00:01:18,829 But the grain shortage? 14 00:01:19,454 --> 00:01:21,164 Now that was a calculated act. 15 00:01:22,124 --> 00:01:25,252 You'd have me believe Cleander wanted my people to starve? 16 00:01:26,628 --> 00:01:28,714 I'd never presume to know the mind of any man, 17 00:01:29,590 --> 00:01:34,344 but I do know that this grain shortage was no natural occurrence. 18 00:01:37,931 --> 00:01:39,892 How do you explain it, Cleander? 19 00:01:40,767 --> 00:01:42,060 Simply. 20 00:01:42,477 --> 00:01:44,897 Dio is trying to overcomplicate the matter. 21 00:01:46,690 --> 00:01:50,485 There was a grain shortage. We tried to resolve it. 22 00:01:51,987 --> 00:01:54,072 The plague prevented us from doing so. 23 00:01:54,156 --> 00:01:57,743 It's a catastrophe, but that's all. 24 00:01:59,620 --> 00:02:00,829 A grain shortage. 25 00:02:02,122 --> 00:02:02,998 In Egypt. 26 00:02:03,624 --> 00:02:04,625 Where else? 27 00:02:05,125 --> 00:02:06,919 What was it? Drought? Blight? 28 00:02:08,253 --> 00:02:10,047 We've heard nothing on our end. 29 00:02:13,050 --> 00:02:14,801 The Senate will never understand 30 00:02:14,885 --> 00:02:16,929 the details that go into running an empire. 31 00:02:17,346 --> 00:02:18,972 You're right, Cleander. 32 00:02:19,056 --> 00:02:21,016 But reports have made their way to me. 33 00:02:21,600 --> 00:02:24,603 And all of them say the grain shipments have continued uninterrupted. 34 00:02:24,686 --> 00:02:27,064 Shipments are disrupted all the time. 35 00:02:27,147 --> 00:02:29,566 Marauders. Storms. 36 00:02:29,650 --> 00:02:31,109 You're right, Cleander. 37 00:02:31,985 --> 00:02:33,320 It happens constantly. 38 00:02:34,446 --> 00:02:37,199 But it's never been enough to cause a shortage before. 39 00:02:40,577 --> 00:02:41,828 Commodus, 40 00:02:42,996 --> 00:02:46,208 what possible reason could I have to see the people starve? 41 00:02:48,585 --> 00:02:49,878 There isn't one. 42 00:02:50,629 --> 00:02:53,966 That depends on where the missing grain is. 43 00:02:55,300 --> 00:02:57,135 If it's at the bottom of the ocean, 44 00:02:57,219 --> 00:03:00,097 or in the hold of a renegade ship, then I would agree. 45 00:03:02,099 --> 00:03:03,642 And where else could it be? 46 00:03:07,354 --> 00:03:08,856 Commodus. 47 00:03:10,274 --> 00:03:13,068 If your people are starving, 48 00:03:13,986 --> 00:03:16,363 if their very lives are in danger, the lives of their families, 49 00:03:16,446 --> 00:03:20,868 and then one man swoops in to save them 50 00:03:20,951 --> 00:03:24,872 at the last minute with his own personal grain supply, 51 00:03:27,666 --> 00:03:31,670 well, that man would be called a hero. 52 00:03:33,172 --> 00:03:37,926 With one act, that man would win the people's undying love. 53 00:03:38,844 --> 00:03:40,721 Ambition knows no limits. 54 00:03:40,804 --> 00:03:43,724 You would speak of ambition? You, who-- 55 00:03:43,807 --> 00:03:44,766 Enough. 56 00:03:50,105 --> 00:03:54,276 57 00:04:04,203 --> 00:04:05,704 Who do you trust, brother? 58 00:04:07,414 --> 00:04:08,248 Dio? 59 00:04:09,541 --> 00:04:12,544 Or your brother, who has stood beside you your whole life? 60 00:04:25,682 --> 00:04:27,684 Right now, I don't trust either of you. 61 00:04:35,108 --> 00:04:37,277 At the end of the second century, 62 00:04:37,736 --> 00:04:41,532 a shortage in grain has devastated the Roman Empire. 63 00:04:42,032 --> 00:04:44,117 And with riots in the streets, 64 00:04:44,535 --> 00:04:49,665 the Emperor's closest advisor and members of the Roman Senate 65 00:04:49,748 --> 00:04:53,043 now blame each other for the chaos. 66 00:04:55,963 --> 00:04:58,799 67 00:06:23,258 --> 00:06:24,885 With no one he can trust, 68 00:06:25,677 --> 00:06:31,391 Commodus is forced to face the possibility that he's been betrayed by his advisor. 69 00:06:35,729 --> 00:06:37,064 It doesn't make any sense. 70 00:06:38,315 --> 00:06:39,900 - Senator Dio is hiding-- - No. 71 00:06:40,526 --> 00:06:41,735 Cleander. 72 00:06:42,736 --> 00:06:44,988 Nothing he's saying makes any sense. 73 00:06:48,659 --> 00:06:50,327 I don't trust the Senator either. 74 00:06:50,911 --> 00:06:54,456 I don't trust what he's doing, or why he's doing it, 75 00:06:55,123 --> 00:06:56,208 but... 76 00:06:59,461 --> 00:07:00,295 What? 77 00:07:02,130 --> 00:07:03,257 Speak. 78 00:07:06,802 --> 00:07:09,137 Even if he's doing it for the wrong reasons, 79 00:07:10,138 --> 00:07:11,807 that doesn't mean it's not the truth. 80 00:07:16,061 --> 00:07:17,187 You're right. 81 00:07:19,273 --> 00:07:22,609 I want nothing more than to believe what Cleander is telling me. 82 00:07:24,361 --> 00:07:25,612 But he's lying. 83 00:07:26,572 --> 00:07:28,031 What are you going to do? 84 00:07:46,884 --> 00:07:49,303 Responsible for the Empire's grain supply, 85 00:07:50,304 --> 00:07:56,226 Cleander must now stand trial to determine who's to blame for the shortage. 86 00:08:08,322 --> 00:08:10,866 Cleander, my entire city is calling for your head. 87 00:08:13,869 --> 00:08:14,912 There have been oversights. 88 00:08:14,995 --> 00:08:16,788 -I've admitted that already. -That's not enough. 89 00:08:19,917 --> 00:08:22,836 I've done all I can to relieve you of the burdens of government. 90 00:08:24,630 --> 00:08:26,882 Perhaps I put too much on myself. 91 00:08:28,800 --> 00:08:30,344 But everything I've done, 92 00:08:32,179 --> 00:08:33,639 I've done for you. 93 00:08:35,432 --> 00:08:37,351 My loyalty cannot be questioned. 94 00:08:38,769 --> 00:08:40,812 With your permission, Emperor. 95 00:08:41,688 --> 00:08:45,817 I have someone, I believe, who can speak to Cleander's loyalty. 96 00:08:55,285 --> 00:08:57,538 You and I both know Dio cannot be trusted. 97 00:08:58,705 --> 00:09:00,332 Remember the lands with the military? 98 00:09:01,375 --> 00:09:04,169 He's betrayed us before, he's only trying-- 99 00:09:13,303 --> 00:09:14,346 Tell him. 100 00:09:16,890 --> 00:09:17,850 I, uh... 101 00:09:18,809 --> 00:09:22,396 You understand, Emperor, the awkward situation-- 102 00:09:25,274 --> 00:09:26,942 You were my sister's servant. 103 00:09:27,818 --> 00:09:29,111 Yes, Emperor. 104 00:09:31,738 --> 00:09:34,032 I'm well aware of Cleander's affection for you. 105 00:09:38,453 --> 00:09:39,955 What's Dio giving you? 106 00:09:40,497 --> 00:09:41,582 Nothing. 107 00:09:44,251 --> 00:09:47,504 You wouldn't be here if what you'd say wasn't beneficial to him. 108 00:09:48,922 --> 00:09:51,550 But I can't see why you'd speak against Cleander for Dio. 109 00:09:53,468 --> 00:09:54,887 It's not for Dio. 110 00:09:56,138 --> 00:09:59,141 It's for my mother. She died. 111 00:09:59,808 --> 00:10:01,685 Earlier this week. From the plague 112 00:10:02,728 --> 00:10:04,396 From Cleander's plague. 113 00:10:08,567 --> 00:10:10,235 You're only repeating the word on the street. 114 00:10:10,319 --> 00:10:12,654 Emperor. He knew. 115 00:10:14,364 --> 00:10:16,200 He knew of the grain shortage, yes. 116 00:10:16,992 --> 00:10:18,243 He was working to stop it. 117 00:10:18,535 --> 00:10:21,330 No. Not the grain shortage. He knew of the plot to kill you. 118 00:10:25,125 --> 00:10:29,004 I overheard Lucilla talking about it with Senator Quintianus. 119 00:10:30,464 --> 00:10:33,050 Cleander pushed me to find out more and I told him. 120 00:10:34,426 --> 00:10:37,846 I told him everything, but he didn't just know. 121 00:10:39,890 --> 00:10:41,683 He helped them. 122 00:10:42,809 --> 00:10:46,522 He was angry, with you. Saoterus. He killed-- 123 00:10:46,605 --> 00:10:48,023 - He killed him. - Oh, bitch! 124 00:10:48,106 --> 00:10:49,274 -He bragged about it before. -You bitch! 125 00:10:49,358 --> 00:10:52,069 Dio must be paying her! You lying bitch! 126 00:10:52,152 --> 00:10:54,696 You hear me? You filthy whore. I'll kill you. 127 00:10:54,780 --> 00:10:56,365 I'll fucking kill you! 128 00:10:56,448 --> 00:10:57,282 129 00:10:57,950 --> 00:11:00,118 Commodus. Commodus, she's lying. 130 00:11:00,827 --> 00:11:02,538 Dio must have gotten to her. 131 00:11:03,789 --> 00:11:05,207 I would never do such a thing. 132 00:11:05,791 --> 00:11:06,708 You know me. 133 00:11:08,627 --> 00:11:10,295 Dio must be paying her. 134 00:11:12,422 --> 00:11:15,342 Commodus. You're my brother. 135 00:11:15,425 --> 00:11:16,343 I wouldn't-- 136 00:11:16,468 --> 00:11:17,553 137 00:11:18,387 --> 00:11:19,638 138 00:11:19,721 --> 00:11:21,014 139 00:11:21,098 --> 00:11:24,142 140 00:11:41,577 --> 00:11:43,453 When Cleander is killed, 141 00:11:44,121 --> 00:11:46,665 it was very clear that all the important elements 142 00:11:46,748 --> 00:11:48,792 of Roman society were against this guy. 143 00:11:51,461 --> 00:11:55,549 I mean now you had the people rising up, the Senate hated this guy, 144 00:11:55,632 --> 00:11:57,259 He just had to go. 145 00:12:03,056 --> 00:12:07,144 The Roman Emperor has been betrayed by his closest advisor, 146 00:12:07,227 --> 00:12:11,064 the one man he trusted, to help him rule the Empire. 147 00:12:12,691 --> 00:12:15,944 And now, Commodus has no choice 148 00:12:16,653 --> 00:12:19,907 but to give the Roman people what they want. 149 00:12:24,161 --> 00:12:29,499 With the people demanding justice, Commodus hands over Cleander's body, 150 00:12:29,583 --> 00:12:34,838 and it's soon decapitated and dragged through the streets. 151 00:12:34,922 --> 00:12:38,175 Rome is an extremely violent place. 152 00:12:38,926 --> 00:12:42,638 In the case of Cleander, it's fairly clear that there was, in fact, 153 00:12:42,721 --> 00:12:44,723 a mob calling for his blood. 154 00:12:44,806 --> 00:12:47,226 There were people who were literally out there, 155 00:12:47,309 --> 00:12:49,228 ready to tear him to pieces. 156 00:12:59,780 --> 00:13:02,574 Commodus has killed his closest friend, 157 00:13:03,992 --> 00:13:06,203 and to bring order to Rome, 158 00:13:07,579 --> 00:13:10,999 he looks to his only remaining source of support. 159 00:13:14,336 --> 00:13:16,797 My apologies for keeping you waiting, Emperor. 160 00:13:16,922 --> 00:13:19,132 I was not expecting visitors so late. 161 00:13:22,719 --> 00:13:25,639 My city's in chaos. We must act. 162 00:13:28,350 --> 00:13:29,643 I couldn't agree more. 163 00:13:31,603 --> 00:13:34,565 The question is, what do we do? 164 00:13:35,649 --> 00:13:37,192 We go to war, 165 00:13:38,944 --> 00:13:41,196 expand our borders, strengthen our glory, 166 00:13:41,864 --> 00:13:43,824 show the people what it means to be Roman. 167 00:13:44,825 --> 00:13:47,870 And with victory, we'll prove the Gods are still behind us. 168 00:13:50,539 --> 00:13:51,623 Do I have your permission 169 00:13:51,707 --> 00:13:53,125 -to speak candidly? -Of course. 170 00:13:55,043 --> 00:13:58,672 Wars take time, money, people. 171 00:13:58,755 --> 00:14:00,257 All things we are dearly lacking. 172 00:14:00,340 --> 00:14:03,218 Well, I won't just sit here while my people riot. 173 00:14:03,302 --> 00:14:04,970 So tell me, Dio, 174 00:14:06,346 --> 00:14:07,431 what should I do? 175 00:14:07,514 --> 00:14:09,183 Grain? Land? 176 00:14:09,266 --> 00:14:11,810 Well, those things have worked for you before, but... 177 00:14:13,061 --> 00:14:14,688 we have never faced anything like this. 178 00:14:14,771 --> 00:14:16,356 Well, then what, Dio? 179 00:14:20,068 --> 00:14:22,237 I'm afraid there is no clean answer. 180 00:14:22,321 --> 00:14:24,907 There is no one action you can take to correct this. 181 00:14:24,990 --> 00:14:25,949 Commodus... 182 00:14:27,868 --> 00:14:30,704 The Empire works best with balance. 183 00:14:31,079 --> 00:14:33,123 The Emperor provides strength for the people, yes, 184 00:14:33,207 --> 00:14:35,584 but the Senate must filter that strength. 185 00:14:36,627 --> 00:14:40,088 Our job is to act as a shield between you and the people. 186 00:14:40,172 --> 00:14:43,175 Otherwise, there is just a single man at the top, 187 00:14:43,258 --> 00:14:45,677 one person they can blame for all their problems. 188 00:14:46,428 --> 00:14:48,305 And we've seen the danger in that. 189 00:14:49,348 --> 00:14:52,726 -So this is my fault, then? -No, Commo-- No, Commodus. 190 00:14:55,229 --> 00:14:57,689 We must all share the blame for this. 191 00:15:02,986 --> 00:15:05,614 We failed in our duty to prepare you. 192 00:15:07,324 --> 00:15:08,617 I see that now. 193 00:15:10,577 --> 00:15:12,371 So what would you have me do? 194 00:15:14,998 --> 00:15:16,834 Let us help you. 195 00:15:19,336 --> 00:15:22,631 Trust us to help you. 196 00:15:26,260 --> 00:15:27,678 Trust you? 197 00:15:43,402 --> 00:15:47,906 While many people may accuse Commodus of having been paranoid, 198 00:15:47,990 --> 00:15:51,702 if you've been raised with this power from birth, 199 00:15:51,785 --> 00:15:55,622 there had to have been a legitimate concern on the part of Commodus 200 00:15:55,706 --> 00:15:58,417 that there is something to be feared. 201 00:15:59,543 --> 00:16:03,922 It is not paranoia if people are actually trying to get you. 202 00:16:05,174 --> 00:16:08,051 203 00:16:15,851 --> 00:16:18,937 As conditions in Rome continue to decline, 204 00:16:19,730 --> 00:16:24,526 Commodus begins to realize that he has no one left to turn to. 205 00:16:24,610 --> 00:16:26,653 206 00:16:27,988 --> 00:16:30,199 207 00:16:33,535 --> 00:16:38,207 And just when it seems the state of the Empire can't get any worse, 208 00:16:38,290 --> 00:16:42,252 catastrophe strikes in the heart of Rome. 209 00:16:42,336 --> 00:16:45,005 210 00:16:48,675 --> 00:16:51,136 211 00:16:52,262 --> 00:16:54,348 Triggered by a passing storm, 212 00:16:55,015 --> 00:16:58,310 a massive fire erupts in the center of the city, 213 00:17:00,562 --> 00:17:03,232 causing widespread destruction and panic. 214 00:17:16,578 --> 00:17:19,206 The fire was started by a lightning strike 215 00:17:19,289 --> 00:17:21,333 within the city itself, 216 00:17:21,416 --> 00:17:24,795 leading immediately to rumors of divine wrath and retribution. 217 00:17:27,506 --> 00:17:30,300 The Gods themselves were angry with Commodus, 218 00:17:30,384 --> 00:17:31,760 were angry with the city of Rome, 219 00:17:31,844 --> 00:17:35,347 and were therefore going to gut it and going to destroy it. 220 00:17:38,892 --> 00:17:43,647 In just days, the fire destroys ancient government buildings 221 00:17:43,730 --> 00:17:45,983 and religious shrines, 222 00:17:46,066 --> 00:17:49,069 devastating the Roman people, 223 00:17:51,655 --> 00:17:53,198 and their Emperor. 224 00:18:04,126 --> 00:18:05,419 225 00:18:05,502 --> 00:18:06,503 226 00:18:08,505 --> 00:18:11,758 Commodus was affected by many of these 227 00:18:11,842 --> 00:18:16,054 traumatic experiences in the various stages of his reign. 228 00:18:16,555 --> 00:18:20,350 He faced all of these other plots, plagues, fires, 229 00:18:20,434 --> 00:18:22,811 and these forms of disasters, 230 00:18:22,895 --> 00:18:26,064 and it's not surprising, having faced all of these plots, 231 00:18:26,148 --> 00:18:30,319 that he did not necessarily trust the old system anymore. 232 00:18:37,242 --> 00:18:38,785 With the city in ruins, 233 00:18:39,494 --> 00:18:43,207 Commodus realizes he has no one to turn to for help 234 00:18:44,374 --> 00:18:50,839 and begins to believe that he's the only person who can save Rome. 235 00:18:52,299 --> 00:18:54,384 236 00:19:07,105 --> 00:19:12,528 With a plan to gain control of his Empire and restore glory to Rome, 237 00:19:14,947 --> 00:19:17,824 Commodus calls a meeting with the Senate. 238 00:19:22,538 --> 00:19:24,456 To start this formal session, 239 00:19:24,790 --> 00:19:29,169 I have the honor of introducing Emperor Commodus. 240 00:19:35,384 --> 00:19:37,261 I've heard talk of omens, 241 00:19:39,054 --> 00:19:41,473 of dissatisfaction amongst the Gods. 242 00:19:42,933 --> 00:19:45,769 Our great city has been devastated 243 00:19:46,645 --> 00:19:50,524 with famine, plague, fire. 244 00:19:52,234 --> 00:19:54,069 Streets have been destroyed, 245 00:19:54,778 --> 00:19:57,781 temples burned to the ground. 246 00:19:59,575 --> 00:20:01,118 Lives have been lost. 247 00:20:06,707 --> 00:20:10,836 But I'm here to tell you this is not a bad thing. 248 00:20:19,720 --> 00:20:23,265 In a forest, fire is far from a catastrophe. 249 00:20:24,349 --> 00:20:25,767 It's a necessity. 250 00:20:27,644 --> 00:20:29,104 It burns out the dead wood, 251 00:20:30,564 --> 00:20:33,525 allowing new growth, new life. 252 00:20:33,901 --> 00:20:38,155 Senators, we stand at the dawn of Rome's rebirth. 253 00:20:38,739 --> 00:20:42,993 A new age is upon us, and we must embrace it. 254 00:20:45,913 --> 00:20:47,497 To celebrate this new age, 255 00:20:48,957 --> 00:20:50,501 and the coming of the new year, 256 00:20:51,752 --> 00:20:56,006 I'm announcing 14 days of Plebeian games. 257 00:21:00,969 --> 00:21:03,514 They'll be the greatest games that Rome has ever seen. 258 00:21:05,474 --> 00:21:07,893 An excellent idea, Emperor. 259 00:21:10,812 --> 00:21:13,440 I'm sure I speak for all the Senate 260 00:21:13,524 --> 00:21:17,528 when I say I cannot wait to watch these games by your side. 261 00:21:22,241 --> 00:21:23,867 No, Dio. 262 00:21:24,785 --> 00:21:27,746 My place will not be in the Imperial box, 263 00:21:28,413 --> 00:21:30,040 but on the battleground. 264 00:21:31,124 --> 00:21:33,168 The greatest games in our history 265 00:21:33,877 --> 00:21:36,004 will have its greatest gladiator as well, 266 00:21:36,672 --> 00:21:38,382 the Emperor himself. 267 00:21:39,132 --> 00:21:41,385 268 00:21:42,594 --> 00:21:44,221 Emperor, 269 00:21:44,930 --> 00:21:47,182 gladiators are slaves. 270 00:21:47,516 --> 00:21:49,309 The Emperor cannot be-- 271 00:21:54,815 --> 00:21:57,860 I'm not asking for your permission, Dio. 272 00:21:59,945 --> 00:22:02,614 The Senate will be in attendance. 273 00:22:03,156 --> 00:22:08,745 You and all of Rome will bear witness to my triumph. 274 00:22:09,496 --> 00:22:10,914 275 00:22:12,291 --> 00:22:14,209 276 00:22:24,094 --> 00:22:26,263 This fool will destroy Rome. 277 00:22:28,182 --> 00:22:30,058 If he survives. 278 00:22:51,997 --> 00:22:56,502 To restore his city and regain the faith of the Roman people, 279 00:22:57,336 --> 00:23:03,133 Commodus will put on the biggest show of games Rome has ever seen. 280 00:23:04,927 --> 00:23:09,181 And for the first time, at the center of the arena, 281 00:23:09,264 --> 00:23:13,143 the Emperor will fight as a gladiator. 282 00:23:13,227 --> 00:23:14,144 All of a sudden, 283 00:23:14,228 --> 00:23:18,023 Commodus decides that he wants to be involved in the governing of the city. 284 00:23:18,106 --> 00:23:20,859 All of a sudden, he wants to be there, he wants to be known, 285 00:23:20,943 --> 00:23:23,612 he wants to be praised by the people. 286 00:23:23,695 --> 00:23:26,740 You might almost think of it as an apology of sorts 287 00:23:26,823 --> 00:23:29,159 for those years when he wanted nothing to do 288 00:23:29,243 --> 00:23:32,829 with being Emperor and now he does, and now he's going to make it right, 289 00:23:32,913 --> 00:23:34,957 but he needs to prove himself first, 290 00:23:35,040 --> 00:23:37,709 and he does so by becoming a gladiator. 291 00:23:40,879 --> 00:23:42,339 For the people of Rome, 292 00:23:42,881 --> 00:23:48,971 no figure is more inspiring than the man fighting to the death in the Coliseum. 293 00:23:51,890 --> 00:23:54,017 These gladiators allowed 294 00:23:54,101 --> 00:23:57,479 the Romans to indulge in a fantasy world 295 00:23:57,563 --> 00:23:59,982 that had a very close relationship 296 00:24:00,065 --> 00:24:06,238 to their views of themselves and the values that they considered important. 297 00:24:07,906 --> 00:24:14,162 By staging 14 days of games and starring as a gladiator, 298 00:24:14,246 --> 00:24:20,794 Commodus is certain that he can usher in a new era for the Roman Empire. 299 00:24:21,336 --> 00:24:24,131 Commodus, as an Emperor, went one step beyond. 300 00:24:24,548 --> 00:24:27,759 Many emperors had given expensive, lavish games. 301 00:24:27,843 --> 00:24:29,219 But up to this point, 302 00:24:29,303 --> 00:24:32,389 no one had ever fought as a gladiator. 303 00:24:32,472 --> 00:24:34,766 I mean, it's one thing to give a show, 304 00:24:34,850 --> 00:24:37,811 it's another to give the show and also star in the show. 305 00:24:37,895 --> 00:24:40,355 306 00:24:41,773 --> 00:24:44,985 307 00:24:55,329 --> 00:24:57,873 Knowing the dangers of the Coliseum, 308 00:24:58,498 --> 00:25:02,085 Commodus enlists a slave who will train him to fight, 309 00:25:05,714 --> 00:25:09,843 a skilled Roman gladiator named Narcissus. 310 00:25:10,552 --> 00:25:13,472 Narcissus was an athlete, a wrestler, 311 00:25:13,555 --> 00:25:15,098 and Commodus looks to him 312 00:25:15,182 --> 00:25:18,435 to train him, because he wants to achieve the kind of level of fitness 313 00:25:18,519 --> 00:25:21,230 that you need need to have to appear in the games. 314 00:25:22,064 --> 00:25:25,526 If he wants to pass himself off as a gladiator, 315 00:25:25,609 --> 00:25:28,195 then he himself has to look the part. 316 00:25:28,278 --> 00:25:32,115 He has to look as fit as someone like Narcissus. 317 00:25:36,620 --> 00:25:39,581 With shows of strength and survival, 318 00:25:41,708 --> 00:25:47,589 Narcissus has made a name for himself as an invincible Roman gladiator, 319 00:25:48,674 --> 00:25:53,971 and will now train the Emperor to fight to the death in the arena. 320 00:26:01,395 --> 00:26:03,063 You summoned me, Emperor. 321 00:26:05,691 --> 00:26:07,526 You're going to train me, Narcissus. 322 00:26:09,903 --> 00:26:11,321 Every day. 323 00:26:12,573 --> 00:26:13,991 Starting now. 324 00:26:29,882 --> 00:26:30,966 325 00:26:33,802 --> 00:26:35,637 326 00:26:37,431 --> 00:26:38,765 Again. 327 00:26:40,267 --> 00:26:42,060 328 00:26:42,144 --> 00:26:42,978 329 00:26:43,729 --> 00:26:45,981 That's good, but don't stop when you have the advantage. 330 00:26:46,064 --> 00:26:46,940 We'll reset. 331 00:27:03,248 --> 00:27:04,416 Down. 332 00:27:05,000 --> 00:27:06,919 Let me steady my feet. 333 00:27:10,255 --> 00:27:13,509 334 00:27:13,592 --> 00:27:16,345 Look at me, not my blade. 335 00:27:16,428 --> 00:27:18,055 Come on, Emperor, push harder! 336 00:27:21,683 --> 00:27:22,851 Harder! 337 00:27:26,897 --> 00:27:27,773 Again. 338 00:27:30,734 --> 00:27:31,610 Come on! 339 00:27:41,245 --> 00:27:42,246 Enough. 340 00:27:42,329 --> 00:27:43,997 341 00:27:44,081 --> 00:27:45,499 Enough for today. 342 00:28:14,194 --> 00:28:15,237 Not bad. 343 00:28:16,613 --> 00:28:17,990 Not bad. 344 00:28:21,994 --> 00:28:25,163 See this? This is simple. 345 00:28:26,415 --> 00:28:29,334 Out there, you stand before your enemy face-to-face. 346 00:28:30,335 --> 00:28:31,879 There's no tricks. 347 00:28:33,922 --> 00:28:35,340 It's not simple. 348 00:28:37,718 --> 00:28:42,264 Maybe not simple, but it does all come down to skill in the end. 349 00:28:43,640 --> 00:28:44,892 Skill plays a part. 350 00:28:47,144 --> 00:28:48,812 I saw you fight. You were unbeatable. 351 00:28:50,397 --> 00:28:53,650 I'm a man, just like everyone. 352 00:28:55,944 --> 00:29:00,199 But you're right. People thought I was unbeatable. 353 00:29:03,410 --> 00:29:06,413 You see, it's not enough just to be better than your opponent. 354 00:29:07,122 --> 00:29:09,625 That leaves room for Fortuna to play her hand. 355 00:29:10,375 --> 00:29:11,335 No. 356 00:29:12,920 --> 00:29:16,423 See, I won my battles before I even entered the arena. 357 00:29:17,633 --> 00:29:19,635 Men came to me hopeless. 358 00:29:21,762 --> 00:29:23,555 How did you make the people believe that? 359 00:29:25,307 --> 00:29:27,392 I gave them something they'd never seen before. 360 00:29:29,686 --> 00:29:31,146 I was invincible. 361 00:29:31,647 --> 00:29:35,067 362 00:29:59,800 --> 00:30:01,009 Eclectus. 363 00:30:02,386 --> 00:30:03,762 Emperor. 364 00:30:04,179 --> 00:30:06,932 Cancel the meetings. I need to increase my training. 365 00:30:07,015 --> 00:30:08,016 As you wish. 366 00:30:11,728 --> 00:30:14,356 Commodus was all about image. 367 00:30:14,439 --> 00:30:15,524 He is someone who is 368 00:30:15,607 --> 00:30:19,945 eager to prove himself, prove his masculinity. 369 00:30:22,614 --> 00:30:26,451 He wanted to be loved and adored. 370 00:30:26,535 --> 00:30:30,873 Commodus was very concerned about the populace. 371 00:30:32,749 --> 00:30:35,586 372 00:30:37,296 --> 00:30:38,589 373 00:30:47,055 --> 00:30:50,767 As Commodus continues to train, 374 00:30:50,851 --> 00:30:55,272 members of the Senate look to put an end to the Emperor's plan, 375 00:30:56,190 --> 00:30:59,484 including Cassius Dio. 376 00:31:03,864 --> 00:31:09,161 For years, Dio has watched the Emperor violate centuries of tradition, 377 00:31:09,244 --> 00:31:12,080 and defy the authority of the Senate. 378 00:31:12,664 --> 00:31:18,712 But with the announcement of his games, Dio believes the Emperor has gone too far, 379 00:31:20,088 --> 00:31:25,844 and knows there's only one person in a position to change the Emperor's mind. 380 00:31:42,277 --> 00:31:43,862 Senator Dio is here to see you. 381 00:31:44,446 --> 00:31:45,906 Send him in. 382 00:31:51,119 --> 00:31:54,081 - I hope I'm not interrupting. - Not at all. 383 00:31:54,164 --> 00:31:55,832 Are you here to see the Emperor? 384 00:31:58,293 --> 00:31:59,670 No, no. 385 00:31:59,753 --> 00:32:02,172 I'm here to see you Marcia. 386 00:32:06,593 --> 00:32:08,554 Now, you and the Emperor, you've, uh... 387 00:32:09,721 --> 00:32:11,431 become quite close. 388 00:32:12,474 --> 00:32:13,976 I'd like to think so. 389 00:32:16,228 --> 00:32:18,230 Oh, I'm sure there's no one he feels closer to. 390 00:32:18,313 --> 00:32:19,731 There's no one he talks to more. 391 00:32:21,275 --> 00:32:24,194 I'm sure you've heard all about his big announcement today. 392 00:32:24,278 --> 00:32:26,196 He plans to fight in the games. 393 00:32:28,657 --> 00:32:32,911 I'm afraid the Senate is more upset than the Emperor realizes. 394 00:32:33,871 --> 00:32:37,165 I'm not sure Commodus cares if the Senators are upset. 395 00:32:38,458 --> 00:32:39,918 And why would he? 396 00:32:40,002 --> 00:32:41,295 He's the Emperor after all, 397 00:32:41,378 --> 00:32:45,632 and we are but a bunch of old men rattling on about tradition and honor, 398 00:32:46,675 --> 00:32:49,595 but I've known Commodus since he was a boy. 399 00:32:50,304 --> 00:32:52,264 I don't want to see him hurt, 400 00:32:53,807 --> 00:32:56,018 or even worse. 401 00:33:03,942 --> 00:33:05,235 Marcia... 402 00:33:08,238 --> 00:33:10,949 Commodus will be entering the arena as a gladiator. 403 00:33:11,033 --> 00:33:14,661 He will fight to the death against a trained killer. 404 00:33:17,539 --> 00:33:20,542 These are uncertain times. 405 00:33:26,715 --> 00:33:32,012 Now, please, forgive me for interrupting your evening. 406 00:33:40,479 --> 00:33:42,648 Marcia, under the Emperor Commodus, 407 00:33:42,731 --> 00:33:48,278 does seem to have been able to almost rise to the level of a significant advisor. 408 00:33:48,362 --> 00:33:53,116 She was trusted by Commodus, and what is interesting with Marcia, 409 00:33:53,200 --> 00:33:57,162 is that even though she comes from a very low background, 410 00:33:57,246 --> 00:33:59,665 the sources suggest that the amount of influence 411 00:33:59,748 --> 00:34:03,961 that she actually had over him may have been very, very significant. 412 00:34:29,444 --> 00:34:31,738 It's natural to be worried. 413 00:34:32,990 --> 00:34:34,241 You doubt me? 414 00:34:34,324 --> 00:34:36,368 No, no. 415 00:34:52,050 --> 00:34:53,135 Emperor. 416 00:34:58,891 --> 00:34:59,892 What is it, Eclectus? 417 00:35:01,143 --> 00:35:02,519 Well, I can return. 418 00:35:03,812 --> 00:35:04,813 Just be quick. 419 00:35:09,735 --> 00:35:13,030 I have reports on the capture of the exotic animals 420 00:35:13,113 --> 00:35:14,698 that you requested for the games. 421 00:35:22,581 --> 00:35:24,416 They were able to retrieve everything. 422 00:35:24,499 --> 00:35:26,752 Yes, but there appear to be complications 423 00:35:26,835 --> 00:35:29,213 in keeping the crocodiles alive during transport. 424 00:35:30,297 --> 00:35:32,174 Have them collect twice what we need. 425 00:35:32,257 --> 00:35:33,759 Some are bound to survive. 426 00:35:33,842 --> 00:35:36,011 -Yes, sir. -Good. 427 00:35:53,153 --> 00:35:54,905 What was that about? 428 00:35:56,323 --> 00:35:57,908 The Games. 429 00:35:59,034 --> 00:36:00,953 430 00:36:32,484 --> 00:36:33,527 Emperor. 431 00:36:36,280 --> 00:36:37,197 No! 432 00:36:39,867 --> 00:36:42,119 It's time I learned what it's really like in the arena. 433 00:36:44,079 --> 00:36:45,956 No more practice swords. 434 00:36:48,625 --> 00:36:50,460 Today we use live steel. 435 00:36:51,461 --> 00:36:53,046 Give me everything you have. 436 00:36:56,967 --> 00:36:58,552 Is this wise? 437 00:37:35,005 --> 00:37:36,882 438 00:37:41,386 --> 00:37:42,804 I order you to fight me. 439 00:37:44,598 --> 00:37:46,058 440 00:37:49,061 --> 00:37:51,522 If only the people could see you now. 441 00:37:51,772 --> 00:37:52,856 Narcissus, 442 00:37:52,940 --> 00:37:55,025 the feeble gladiator! 443 00:37:55,442 --> 00:37:57,653 The weak, the ignoble, 444 00:37:57,736 --> 00:38:00,405 the disgraced, the dishonorable! 445 00:38:08,205 --> 00:38:12,459 446 00:38:28,892 --> 00:38:30,143 It wasn't just about 447 00:38:30,227 --> 00:38:32,980 violence and machismo. 448 00:38:33,063 --> 00:38:34,648 It was also about skill 449 00:38:34,731 --> 00:38:37,067 and self-control. 450 00:38:39,027 --> 00:38:40,571 When a gladiator fell, 451 00:38:40,654 --> 00:38:45,993 he had to accept the death blow from his opponent with a calm expression. 452 00:38:48,912 --> 00:38:54,501 He had to stare calmly ahead as the blade was plunged into his throat. 453 00:39:04,720 --> 00:39:06,847 454 00:39:31,413 --> 00:39:32,748 Leave me. 455 00:39:53,519 --> 00:39:58,398 456 00:40:32,182 --> 00:40:33,350 What's happened? 457 00:40:38,480 --> 00:40:41,733 -Are you sure you want to do-- -Leave me, please. 458 00:41:01,628 --> 00:41:06,008 After months of training and preparation for his games, 459 00:41:06,091 --> 00:41:10,721 Commodus begins to realize he's not ready for the arena, 460 00:41:11,346 --> 00:41:14,099 and with the games quickly approaching, 461 00:41:14,183 --> 00:41:17,769 he starts devising a way to secure his victory. 462 00:41:29,990 --> 00:41:32,868 463 00:41:35,162 --> 00:41:37,414 On the eve of the games, 464 00:41:41,251 --> 00:41:45,088 Commodus hosts an elaborate feast for the gladiators, 465 00:41:45,172 --> 00:41:47,382 honoring Roman tradition. 466 00:41:48,091 --> 00:41:51,011 On the evening before gladiators appeared in the arena, 467 00:41:51,094 --> 00:41:53,555 they were given a last supper. 468 00:41:53,639 --> 00:41:56,600 Spectators were actually allowed to come and watch them eat this, 469 00:42:02,856 --> 00:42:06,610 and we have descriptions of how some ate heartily 470 00:42:06,693 --> 00:42:08,612 and seemed to enjoy the occasion. 471 00:42:08,695 --> 00:42:10,572 472 00:42:12,074 --> 00:42:15,160 And it must have been a very poignant scene. 473 00:42:30,843 --> 00:42:32,219 How's your neck, Emperor? 474 00:42:32,719 --> 00:42:33,971 It's just a scratch. 475 00:42:34,471 --> 00:42:36,348 The badge of any true gladiator. 476 00:42:38,851 --> 00:42:39,977 Wear it with honor. 477 00:42:43,188 --> 00:42:44,606 Look... 478 00:42:44,982 --> 00:42:47,025 You were right to push me. 479 00:42:48,485 --> 00:42:51,738 It would have been unfair to send you into the arena unprepared. 480 00:42:53,115 --> 00:42:55,868 I failed my duty as your trainer. Will you forgive me? 481 00:42:56,368 --> 00:42:57,703 I already have. 482 00:42:59,746 --> 00:43:01,707 483 00:43:01,790 --> 00:43:03,041 Listen to them. 484 00:43:06,461 --> 00:43:09,298 You are part of a brotherhood now. 485 00:43:10,424 --> 00:43:13,760 “To be burned, to be bound, to be beaten, 486 00:43:16,054 --> 00:43:18,140 and to be killed by the sword. 487 00:43:19,433 --> 00:43:21,852 Those men out there in the pit, they're your... 488 00:43:23,061 --> 00:43:24,104 they're your family. 489 00:43:28,066 --> 00:43:29,484 So am I, 490 00:43:30,986 --> 00:43:32,946 and I know you will do us honor. 491 00:43:35,365 --> 00:43:36,491 Brother. 492 00:43:44,499 --> 00:43:46,001 493 00:43:54,718 --> 00:43:56,678 Commodus has laid the groundwork 494 00:43:56,762 --> 00:44:01,892 for the most impressive show of games the Empire has ever seen. 495 00:44:04,561 --> 00:44:07,689 And while the Emperor knows he's not ready to fight, 496 00:44:08,357 --> 00:44:10,692 he still decides to move forward, 497 00:44:11,527 --> 00:44:14,363 determined to secure his legacy. 498 00:44:15,322 --> 00:44:16,532 My brothers. 499 00:44:17,366 --> 00:44:20,244 Tomorrow is the beginning of 14 days of games. 500 00:44:23,872 --> 00:44:27,334 The greatest that have been since the dedication of the Coliseum. 501 00:44:30,796 --> 00:44:33,757 Untold glory awaits us. 502 00:44:35,300 --> 00:44:40,138 By the time the festival is over, Rome will have been born anew, 503 00:44:41,557 --> 00:44:44,560 into an era of unprecedented greatness, 504 00:44:45,894 --> 00:44:48,814 and she will have been lifted there upon your mighty shoulders. 505 00:44:49,857 --> 00:44:53,694 As Emperor, I salute you. 506 00:44:56,113 --> 00:44:57,781 And as a Gladiator, 507 00:45:00,325 --> 00:45:02,494 it's an honor to be one of you. 508 00:45:11,587 --> 00:45:13,881 I will endure to be burned, 509 00:45:14,381 --> 00:45:16,550 to be bound, to be beaten, 510 00:45:19,094 --> 00:45:20,971 and to be killed by the sword. 511 00:45:22,723 --> 00:45:25,851 512 00:45:29,563 --> 00:45:32,774 -"I will endure to be burned..." -"I will endure to be burned..." 513 00:45:32,858 --> 00:45:34,193 -"...to be bound..." -"...to be bound..." 514 00:45:34,276 --> 00:45:35,861 -"...to be beaten..." -"...to be beaten..." 515 00:45:35,944 --> 00:45:38,989 - "...and to be killed by the sword!" -"...and to be killed by the sword!" 516 00:45:39,072 --> 00:45:42,451 -"I will endure to be burned..." -"I will endure to be burned..." 517 00:45:42,534 --> 00:45:43,952 -"...to be bound..." -"...to be bound..." 518 00:45:44,036 --> 00:45:45,454 "...to be beaten..." -"...to be beaten..." 519 00:45:45,537 --> 00:45:48,749 -"...and to be killed by the sword!" -"...and to be killed by the sword!" 520 00:45:49,625 --> 00:45:52,586 -"I will endure to be burned..." -"I will endure to be burned..." 521 00:45:52,669 --> 00:45:53,962 -"...to be bound..." -"...to be bound..." 522 00:45:54,046 --> 00:45:55,506 -"...to be beaten..." -"...to be beaten..." 523 00:45:55,589 --> 00:45:58,967 -"...and to be killed by the sword!" -"...and to be killed by the sword!" 524 00:45:59,218 --> 00:46:02,429 525 00:46:17,819 --> 00:46:20,030 Despite the Senate's outrage, 526 00:46:20,697 --> 00:46:23,408 and his unknown fate as a gladiator, 527 00:46:24,952 --> 00:46:28,330 Commodus will enter the arena in the morning, 528 00:46:31,625 --> 00:46:35,504 not knowing if he'll exit alive.