wgg-1

Though "Spartacus: Vengeance" has many episodes yet to air, I am writing to applaud the brilliance of the series in general and of the episode "Libertus" (2/24/12) in particular. I never expected a television series about the ancient world to exceed the atmospheric and well-acted "Rome" on HBO. The "Spartacus" series has eclipsed any of its TV predecessors about the Roman Empire with a combination of action and drama that, at minimum, must be described as riveting. "Libertus" left me breathless with its climatic surprise that bears genuine comparison to Atlanta's burning in "Gone With The Wind." Like GWTW, "Spartacus" serves up (rather, carves up) big doses of epic soap opera, but when such fare is done well, nothing is better. Enormous credit is due Lucy Lawless and Manu Bennett, who have revived the memorable chemistry and romantic tension of their Antony and Cleopatra in one of the best "Xena" episodes. Liam McIntyre has given Spartacus his own compelling signature while honorably not seeking to replace Andy Whitfield's depiction of the character. Finally, Craig Parker as the seething and complex Glaber is this season's breakout star. We know the historic Spartacus meets a tragic fate, but I must hope this hero, along with his allies and enemies, will live forever.

"This is what he does best, and he is the best." A corrupt Interpol officer makes that observation about Roland Flint, the character played by Scott Adkins in the riveting "Assassination Games." It's an accolade that truly applies to the film's star, Jean-Claude Van Damme, who has translated his experience as a global superstar into becoming one of the globe's best actors. JCVD is Vincent Brazil, a professional assassin and loner whose profession has intensified his self-isolation. Flint and Brazil become reluctant partners in a cat-and-mouse game against both Interpol and the European mob. Along the way, an unlikely girl next door named October invades Brazil's carefully protected personal space and forces him to provide her refuge from a vengeful pimp (depicted with effective menace by actor Attila Arpa). When October thanks Vincent with a kiss to the cheek, Van Damme displays the hit-man's resistance to affection with an emotion that is both telling and heartbreaking. It is a rare moment for an action film and a testament to the brilliance of Van Damme the actor. The relationship of October and Vincent becomes an effective dramatic anchor for the movie's unrelenting mix of tragedy and revenge. Increasingly, as his films showcase his dramatic talents, Van Damme creates movies that are both character driven and visually stylish without resorting to CGI tricks or action clichés. Experience and talent have enabled the original "Muscles from Brussels" to evolve into one of the most creative and uniquely effective forces in film making today. "Assassination Games" is another great chapter in the career of a triumphant and supremely talented Jean-Claude Van Damme.