Colosseum

This riveting History Channel docudrama miniseries ponders the Roman Empire's rise and fall through the saga of its signature edifice--the astonishing amphitheater where crowds as large as 80,000 took in gladiator combat and other public spectacles. Expert observations combine with action-packed speculative staging of the violent lives spent in the arena for a remarkable viewing experience; with James Oliver Wheatley, Ian Beattie, Josh Taylor, Vinny Moli. 5 3/4 hrs. on two discs. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English.