"CLAUDIUS" RULES

          TV's reigning mini-series.
          Based on the novels by renown scholar Robert Graves, the BBC 1976 production I, Claudius brings to vivid life generations of inbred, spoiled, and delusional Romans from the time of Augustus Caesar on down through a steady line of wackos having to get periodically offed.
          More timely now and pertinent than when first aired, I, Claudius begins in the winter of the unlikely emperor's life. He records the history which unfolds before us with the intention to hide the finished product from all humanity for 1,900 years. The reason for this device is to create a sense of timeliness for the audience, and it works about as well as anything.
          In the title role, Derek Jacobi stammers, limps, and twitches toward acting immortality as the afflicted son of the noble Drusus, brother of Tiberius, whose mother Livia plots and schemes like a spider in a web through the power of her husband the emperor.
          As Augustus, Brian Blessed plays the role of a lifetime. "I'm supposed to rule an empire, and I can't even rule my own family!" exasperated he expostulates. His is one of many standout parts in the 668-minute epic family drama rife with engrossing characters.
          Commingled with corruption and petty place-seeking is the suspicion that there are those who would oppose the usurpation and consolidation of privilege. Augustus fears being overthrown. But as bad as he is, in the long run he's the best of the bunch.
          Caligula, for example, fancies himself a god. When he postures glittering in gossamer finery and struts about in a gold bikini, those who do not laud his talents loudly enough court peril, and are therefore careful to clap harder, always harder, in the false and desperate display of praise as is typical during reigns of terror.
          In the 35th-anniversary edition DVD, an insightful documentary on the production reveals much as key cast members and director Herbert Wise individually recollect. It's a 74-minute gem well worth seeking. John Hurt, who came to fame as Caligula, details some of the choices that he made in playing the part, such as getting into bed with his great grandmother and telling her off.
          Lacking a huge budget, the production instead utilizes filmmaking skill. Part comedy, part horror, at all times thoroughly interesting, I, Claudius showcases multiple unforgettable performances, and does the job so well, it's almost a shock to learn that the ancient Romans weren't really all that British.


I, CLAUDIUS
Starring Derek Jacobi,
Brian Blessed,
Sian Phillips,
John Hurt,
George Baker,
Patrick Stewart,
Margaret Tyzack,
James Faulkner
Directed by Herbert Wise
Written by Jack Pulman
Based on the novels by Robert Graves
Runtime 668 minutes


Stewart Kirby writes for
THE INDEPENDENT
and
TWO RIVERS TRIBUNE