I, Claudius Review: Poison and Politics in Ancient Rome
9/10 — I, Claudius (1976)
Pros
- Siân Phillips's Livia
- Derek Jacobi's Claudius
- Dark, witty script
Cons
- Studio-bound
- Theatrical pacing
Derek Jacobi plays the stammering Claudius, who survives the murderous Roman court to become emperor, narrating the story of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. It’s based on Robert Graves’s novels.
What works
The performances are superb, with Siân Phillips as the poisonous Livia, John Hurt as Caligula and Patrick Stewart as Sejanus. The writing is dark and witty, and the intrigue is gripping.
Where it falters
It’s studio-bound with limited sets, and the pace is theatrical.
Verdict
A brilliant, treacherous drama.
