The Practical Brilliance of Spartacus

Younger moviegoers are probably familiar with Gladiator, the 2000 historical epic directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe. The film won five Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Visual Effects, and was nominated in 12 categories. It also grossed $460 million worldwide. A sequel, Gladiator II, recently arrived (see article, page 38). But perhaps less known is the granddaddy of all Gladiator movies – 1960’s Spartacus starring Kirk Douglas and directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick. It was an epic before CGI, relying on voluminous practical methods. Many believe the movie revolutionized cinema for years after.

Spartacus was known for its massive sets of ancient Rome and very elaborately crafted costumes and props such as Roman legionnaire outfits and ancient weapons. In some scenes, 10,000 extras were used. For the last battle scene, 8,000 soldiers from the Spanish army played Roman soldiers and rebel slaves. Major portions of the movie were filmed in Spain.

Many matte paintings were used to extend physical sets and create expansive landscapes and cityscapes. Matte paintings were also combined with live-action shots. In addition, rear projection simulated distant backgrounds while many miniature models were used for large-scale scenes.

Significantly, instead of relying on visual effects, many dramatic sequences were created with practical stunt work during battle scenes and gladiator contests. One scene showing a gladiator fight between Kirk Douglas and Woody Strode was carefully choreographed with real weapons. Cinematographer Russell Metty used several in-camera effects such as creative lighting and forced-perspective techniques to create larger backdrops. The large-scale battle scenes included a profusion of pyrotechnics for explosions and flaming weapons. There was also an abundance of fake blood and prosthetics. Even by modern standards, the practical visual and special effects in Spartacus remain spectacular.