Review of Hero of Rome

Set during the earlier days of Rome before their empire days this is a reasonably good peplum with the usual mighty thewed warriors, beautiful maidens in svelte garments, loads of legions legging it about, political discussions and dollops of intrigue. Our hero Mucius is played solidly by muscular Gordon Scott. As the chief villain Massimo Serato is most hissable playing Tarquin the ousted ruler of Rome. Gabriele Antonini also does well as the sympathetic Arunte. Special mention must be made of A. Francesco Lavagnino's epic score which he was always good at, and the film looks attractive in 'Eastmancolor' and widescreen. The only jarring note is the use of footage from other similar films but otherwise it's an entertaining movie.

Though I was peeved when Maria Pia Conte's character Valeria was fatally arrowed. I liked her.