Family Gladiator Films Collection

Description: While not exclusively about gladiators, the chariot race scene is iconic, and the film explores themes of revenge, forgiveness, and redemption, making it suitable for family viewing.

Fact: The chariot race scene took three months to film and involved 78 horses. The film won 11 Academy Awards, a record at the time.

Description: This classic film recounts the story of Spartacus, a Thracian gladiator who leads a slave uprising against the Roman Republic. It's a story of freedom, leadership, and the fight against oppression, suitable for older children and adults.

Fact: The film was one of the first to credit blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, helping to end the Hollywood blacklist. It was also one of the most expensive films ever made at the time.

Description: This epic film covers the decline of Rome, including scenes of gladiatorial combat. It's a grand narrative about the rise and fall of empires, with themes of leadership and legacy.

Fact: The film was one of the most expensive ever made at the time, with a budget of $19 million. It features a cast of thousands, including extras for the battle and gladiatorial scenes.

Description: This epic historical drama follows Maximus Decimus Meridius, a former Roman general forced into slavery who rises through the ranks of the gladiatorial arena to seek revenge. Its themes of family, loyalty, and redemption make it a compelling watch for families.

Fact: Russell Crowe gained 40 pounds of muscle for his role as Maximus. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: Although more fantasy than historical, this film features gladiatorial combat and follows the journey of a warrior seeking to overthrow an evil ruler, with themes of leadership and family.

Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson made his starring debut in this film, which was a spin-off from "The Mummy Returns."

Description: This film blends historical fiction with fantasy, featuring gladiatorial elements as it follows the last Roman emperor and his protectors. It's a tale of duty, honor, and the quest for a legendary sword.

Fact: The film was inspired by the legend of King Arthur, suggesting that the last Roman emperor was the basis for the Arthurian legend.

Description: While not strictly about gladiators, this film features Roman soldiers in a survival story against the backdrop of the Roman Empire's expansion. It's a tale of brotherhood and survival, themes that resonate with family audiences.

Fact: The film was inspired by the disappearance of the Ninth Legion in Roman Britain. Michael Fassbender trained for months to get into shape for his role.

Description: Set in Roman Britain, this film tells the story of a young Roman officer searching for the lost standard of his father's legion. It includes gladiatorial elements and focuses on themes of honor and family legacy.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Eagle of the Ninth" by Rosemary Sutcliff. The movie was shot in Scotland and Hungary to capture the Roman and British landscapes.

Description: This film focuses on the early life of Hercules, including his time as a gladiator. It's a visually spectacular retelling with themes of destiny, family, and heroism.

Fact: The film was released in 3D, showcasing the gladiatorial battles in a new light. Dwayne Johnson later played Hercules in a different film.

Description: Although primarily a disaster film, it includes gladiatorial combat and explores themes of love, sacrifice, and survival, making it an engaging watch for families interested in historical settings.

Fact: The film was shot in Toronto, with sets built to replicate the ancient city of Pompeii. It was released on the 1938th anniversary of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.