Caligula

Synopsis

Caligula tells the story of the rise and fall of the notorious Roman Emperor Caligula, played by Malcolm McDowell. Released in 1979, this controversial film delves deep into the debauchery and tyranny of Caligula's reign, showcasing his violent and perverse actions. The movie explores the intricate web of power, lust, and betrayal within the Roman Empire, with a mix of historical accuracy and explicit scenes. Caligula's descent into madness and cruelty unfolds amidst lavish sets and costumes, creating a visually stunning yet disturbing portrayal of ancient Rome's dark side.

Cast

• 

  Malcolm McDowell

  Caligula

• 

  Teresa Ann Savoy

  Drusilla

• 

  Helen Mirren

  Caesonia

• 

  Peter O'Toole

  Tiberius

• 

  John Steiner

  Longinus

• 

  Guido Mannari

  Macro

Reviews

Caligula (1979) received mixed reviews upon its release. With an IMDb rating of 5.3/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 22%, the film faced criticism for its graphic content and uneven storytelling. While some praised Malcolm McDowell's intense performance as Caligula, others condemned the gratuitous violence and sexual scenes. A review from Roger Ebert criticized the film's lack of coherence, stating, 'Caligula is a mess, but an interesting one.' Despite its flaws, the movie has gained a cult following for its audacious approach to historical drama.