Review of Caligula (1979) by Stuart K — 22 Aug 2009

Probabily the most pornographic historical epic ever made, and probabily the only one of it's kind too. Written by Gore Vidal, Directed by Tinto Brass and then comendeered by it's producer Bob Guccione.

What should have been a savage morality tale on the corruption of total power and freedom became a very seedy hardcore mainstream porno film. Although there is a good film somewhere in there. Set between 37AD and 41AD, it follows the reign of Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus, better known as Caligula, (Malcolm McDowell), a womaniser who used violent methods to become Emperor of Rome, he murdered his grandfather Emperor Tiberius (Peter O'Toole), as well as Tiberius' friend and associate Nerva (John Gielgud).

But, as if becoming emperor isn't enough, he also undertakes in some horrendously seedy activity, he sleeps with his sister!! :O Unable to marry his sister, he marries courtesan Caesonia (Helen Mirren), but power drives him to insanity, and a conspiracy grows to assassinate him.

Wow. This is a one of a kind film, but despite brilliant sets and costumes, it's frustratingly uneven, the hardcore inserts are unnecessary, the acting is over the top, and it's just a mess. But, there's something engaging for a moment about it.

It's just a sad aftermath of what could have been.