Domina

Just finished watching the final episode of the first series of Domina, a very smart new show from Sky, based on the life of Liva Drusilla - wife of Augustus Caesar. I really liked it, mainly because it continued the theme of complexity and double-dealing initiated in the character by Sian Phillips, who played Livia in the series I, Claudius. I saw that when it originally broadcast in 1976, and have seen it a couple of times since.. This version of her story presents a much younger version of Livia, but I found many similarities and links which enhanced both series. You do need to concentrate to keep up with her, but its a worthwhile effort . . . Give her a watch!

Very good, well written, well acted and I binge watched the whole series. I hope there is another. Tiberius is a gem.

Deals with the tough time Livia and her son Tiberias had before her rise. And believable.

Not always accurate. Freed slaves were Freemen or Free-women and Roman citizenship was not lightly given. Also Dictator was a respectable office held for a limited period to overcome great dangers. It ended after Julius Caesar made himself Dictator for Life.

Octavius was probably more dependent on Agrippa than is shown, but is a convincing character.

It needlessly skips over the complex politics that had Cicero sponsoring Octavian against Marcus Antonius, before they became allies.

But it's the most accurate drama I've seen. Much more so than the earlier series Rome.

Being a huge fan of ancient Rome, I was starved of shows set in the Roman era, so when I heard of Domina I was ecstatic but also wary of the fact that this could be a potential let down. After the departure HBO/BBC co-production Rome (2005) which was superb, I was afraid to get my hopes up.

However, this series has proven to be quite entertaining although it's not the same as the show Rome (2005).

The story centers around our main character Livia Drusilla and those in her inner circle. Sometimes it gets a bit too soapy.

The adult version of Augustus is depicted as a man who seems oblivious to the schemes of his wife which often results in him being a mere puppet in the scene because of it. I find this portrayal quite strange as he is known to be one of history's most clever politicians, surely he knew well how to handle the politics within his very own household.

I must say I am very impressed with the second season which is far better than the first, it has redeeming qualities as the characters are better written and I found myself even getting upset when they died.

Moreover, I applaud the costume department and the set designers for transporting us back to ancient Rome. These small, intricate details give us a glimpse into the daily life and habits of a Roman citizen.

Season 2 is better than season 1, until the final episode which ends up being the weakest episode.

Summary: If you're bored or just curious, give it a watch.

Started out okay. Stuck with it as it gradually got better and better. I found it both clever and entertaining. At the end and I'm already anxious for the next season. I've seen some criticism concerning language. Seems a silly critique. They are speaking English for a modern audience. I can't imagine sitting through a lengthy series listening to the entire cast speak Latin just for the sake of being historically correct.