10 Shows & Movies Similar to Rome (2005)

Description: The Tudors, like Rome (2005), is a historical drama that explores the personal and political lives of its characters. Both series are known for their lavish production values, complex characters, and a blend of historical fact and dramatic fiction. The focus on Henry VIII's court mirrors Rome's depiction of Julius Caesar's rise and fall.

Fact: The Tudors was created by Michael Hirst, who also created Vikings. Jonathan Rhys Meyers won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Henry VIII. The series was filmed in Ireland, with many scenes shot at Ardmore Studios.

Description: Domina, like Rome (2005), centers on the political and personal struggles within ancient Rome, focusing on the life of Livia Drusilla, the wife of Augustus. Both series highlight the machinations of power and the role of women in shaping history, with a strong emphasis on historical accuracy and dramatic storytelling.

Fact: Domina was created by Simon Burke, known for his work on Fortitude. The series was filmed in Italy, adding to its authentic Roman atmosphere. Kasia Smutniak, who plays Livia, learned Latin for her role.

Description: The Borgias parallels Rome (2005) in its depiction of a powerful family's rise to dominance in a historical setting. Both series explore themes of corruption, betrayal, and the intersection of religion and politics. The lavish production design and complex characters in The Borgias are reminiscent of Rome's grandeur.

Fact: The Borgias was created by Neil Jordan, an acclaimed filmmaker. Jeremy Irons won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Pope Alexander VI. The series was originally planned for four seasons but was canceled after three.

Description: Marco Polo, like Rome (2005), is a historical epic that blends political intrigue with personal drama. Both series are set in vast empires (the Mongol Empire and the Roman Empire) and feature elaborate battle scenes, intricate costumes, and a focus on the lives of both rulers and commoners.

Fact: Marco Polo was one of Netflix's most expensive series at the time of its release. The show was filmed in Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Italy. Benedict Wong, who plays Kublai Khan, gained significant weight for the role.

Description: Vikings shares with Rome (2005) a deep exploration of historical events through the lens of personal drama and ambition. Both series are known for their detailed depiction of ancient warfare, political maneuvering, and the rise and fall of empires. The visual style of Vikings, with its gritty realism and attention to historical detail, is reminiscent of Rome's approach to storytelling.

Fact: Vikings was created by Michael Hirst, who also wrote The Tudors. The series is loosely based on the sagas of Viking Ragnar Lothbrok. Filming took place in Ireland, with many scenes shot at the same locations used in Game of Thrones.

Description: The White Queen, like Rome (2005), is a historical drama that focuses on a turbulent period in history (the Wars of the Roses). Both series highlight the role of women in shaping political outcomes and feature a mix of romance, betrayal, and warfare. The storytelling style and attention to historical detail are similar.

Fact: The White Queen is based on Philippa Gregory's historical novels. The series was a co-production between the BBC and Starz. Rebecca Ferguson, who plays Elizabeth Woodville, went on to star in Mission: Impossible films.

Description: Reign, like Rome (2005), blends historical events with dramatic storytelling, focusing on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. Both series explore the challenges of leadership, the complexities of love and loyalty, and the political machinations of their respective eras. The visual style and emotional tone of Reign are reminiscent of Rome's approach.

Fact: Reign was created by Laurie McCarthy and Stephanie SenGupta. The series was criticized for its historical inaccuracies but praised for its drama and costumes. Adelaide Kane, who plays Mary, is Australian but mastered a Scottish accent for the role.

Description: Like Rome (2005), The Last Kingdom is a historical drama that delves into the complexities of power, loyalty, and cultural clashes. Both series feature a mix of political intrigue and brutal warfare, set against the backdrop of a significant historical period. The Last Kingdom focuses on the Viking invasions of England, much like Rome's focus on the Roman Empire's expansion and internal strife.

Fact: The series is based on Bernard Cornwell's The Saxon Stories series of novels. The protagonist, Uhtred, is loosely based on a real historical figure, Uhtred the Bold. The show was initially produced by BBC Two before moving to Netflix for subsequent seasons.

Description: Versailles, like Rome (2005), is a historical drama that focuses on the opulence and intrigue of a royal court. Both series feature elaborate costumes, sets, and a deep dive into the personal and political lives of their characters. The themes of power, betrayal, and ambition are central to both.

Fact: Versailles was one of the most expensive French television productions ever. The series was filmed at the actual Palace of Versailles. The show was created by Simon Mirren and David Wolstencroft.

Description: Knightfall shares with Rome (2005) a focus on a pivotal historical period (the fall of the Knights Templar) and the personal and political conflicts that arise. Both series feature a mix of action, drama, and historical events, with a strong emphasis on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by their characters.

Fact: Knightfall was created by Don Handfield and Richard Rayner. The series features Tom Cullen, known for his role in Downton Abbey. The show was canceled after two seasons despite a planned third.