Rome: The Complete Series
Fans of ancient history, complex political drama and naked pagan debauchery alike will find something to hail in this two-season HBO and BBC co-production. The series follows the transition of Rome from republic to empire, from the reign of Caesar to the rise of Augustus. But though the history may be familiar, the real pleasure of the show is its attention to detail — the opulence and grime of a city and empire come alive, as the series sweeps from the capital to the intrigues of Egypt. And paralleling the workings of state is a grunt's-eye people's history as seen through the eyes of peripatetic soldiers Titus Pullo (Ray Stevenson) and Lucius Vorenus (Kevin McKidd). Smart and saucy, this is one swords-and-sandals epic that's not afraid to get its toga dirty. — James Poniewozik
Price: $64.99 at Amazon