“The Convert” is a new historical action thriller, directed by Lee Tamahori, starring Guy Pearce, Tioreore Ngatai-Melborne, Antonio Te Maioha, Jacqueline Mckenzie, Lawrence Makoare, Dean O’Gorman, Ariki Turner and Duane Evans, opening July 12, 2024 in theaters:
“…’Thomas Munro’, a newly arrived preacher in a colonial town in early 19th-century New Zealand finds himself…
“…at the center of a long-standing battle between two ‘Māori’ native tribes…”
Click the images to enlarge…...
“…’Thomas Munro’, a newly arrived preacher in a colonial town in early 19th-century New Zealand finds himself…
“…at the center of a long-standing battle between two ‘Māori’ native tribes…”
Click the images to enlarge…...
- 6/5/2024
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
"Only blood redeems blood. Magnolia Pictures has debuted the US trailer for a film called The Convert from New Zealand, made by Kiwi filmmaker Lee Tamahori. He used to make big Hollywood action movies for years, then went back to New Zealand to make more intimate dramas about his homeland - I loved his last one The Patriarch from 2016. Tamahori’s new action-filled historical epic stars Guy Pearce as Thomas Munro, a newly arrived preacher in a colonial town in early 19th-century New Zealand who finds himself at the center of a long-standing battle between two Māori tribes. A lay preacher arrives at a British settlement in 1830s. His violent past is soon drawn into question and his faith put to the test, as he finds himself caught in the middle of a bloody war between Maori tribes. In addition to Pearce, this also stars Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne as Rangimai, Antonio Te Maioha,...
- 6/4/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Magnet is bringing an intense trailer for Lee Tamahori’s action drama The Convert to theaters and on-demand on July 12, 2024, but not before footage from the film spills blood online. The gripping tale of survival stars Guy Pearce as Thomas Munro, a newly arrived preacher in a colonial town in early 19th-century New Zealand who finds himself at the center of a long-standing battle between two Māori tribes. The Convert trailer is ambitious and brutal, displaying a power clash for control over land and loyalty.
Lee Tamahori’s The Convert premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023 as part of a special presentation. Before the screening, festival organizers released the following description of the film:
As the tall ship carrying preacher Thomas Monro (Guy Pearce) arrives on the shores of the settler town of Epworth, he enters a world he could scarcely have imagined. Despite the growing colonial British...
Lee Tamahori’s The Convert premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023 as part of a special presentation. Before the screening, festival organizers released the following description of the film:
As the tall ship carrying preacher Thomas Monro (Guy Pearce) arrives on the shores of the settler town of Epworth, he enters a world he could scarcely have imagined. Despite the growing colonial British...
- 6/4/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Lee Tamahori’s historical action epic The Convert has been acquired for distribution in multiple territories, including Magnolia Pictures in North America for a July 12 release date.
The film world premiered at Toronto International Film Festival, and stars Guy Pearce, Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne, Antonio Te Maioha, Jacqueline McKenzie and Lawrence Makoare.
UK sales outfit Mister Smith Entertainment has also closed deals with Germany’s Capelight Pictures, Spain’s Divisa Red, WW for Benelux, Front Row Entertainment in the Middle East, Monolith Films for Poland, Arna Media for Cis and the Baltic States, Blitz for Ex-Yugoslavia, Ascot Elite for Switzerland, The Film Group for Greece and Cyprus,...
The film world premiered at Toronto International Film Festival, and stars Guy Pearce, Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne, Antonio Te Maioha, Jacqueline McKenzie and Lawrence Makoare.
UK sales outfit Mister Smith Entertainment has also closed deals with Germany’s Capelight Pictures, Spain’s Divisa Red, WW for Benelux, Front Row Entertainment in the Middle East, Monolith Films for Poland, Arna Media for Cis and the Baltic States, Blitz for Ex-Yugoslavia, Ascot Elite for Switzerland, The Film Group for Greece and Cyprus,...
- 5/2/2024
- ScreenDaily
Since his breakthrough 1994 feature Once Were Warriors, a troubling and fiery coming-of-age story indie set in New Zealand’s Maōri community, Lee Tamahori has almost exclusively resided in the realm of pulpy B-grade action cinema. From directing Pierce Brosnan’s final Bond in Die Another Day to Ice Cube in XXX: State of the Union to making a Guy Ritchie-lite actioner about Saddam Hussein’s son (The Devil’s Double), Tamahori has a strong familiarity with cheesy espionage plotlines and passable entertainment. Both sides of Tamahori’s filmography come together in his latest historical epic The Convert––results are expectedly mixed.
Presented in a decidedly prestige manner with sweeping camerawork and a plotline that decides to burn slow in building the relationships of its characters, The Convert tells of John Munro (Guy Pearce), a British preacher who is brought to the settlement of Epworth to help serve the community of settlers there.
Presented in a decidedly prestige manner with sweeping camerawork and a plotline that decides to burn slow in building the relationships of its characters, The Convert tells of John Munro (Guy Pearce), a British preacher who is brought to the settlement of Epworth to help serve the community of settlers there.
- 9/25/2023
- by Soham Gadre
- The Film Stage
When lay minister Thomas Munro (Guy Pearce) first reaches the shores of New Zealand in 1830, he does so on a white horse. A religious British man riding into a far-off land on his milky stallion is the picture of a white savior if there ever was one. But director Lee Tamahori has other plans for this well-spoken man of God in his blood-soaked period drama “The Convert,” his first feature film outing since 2016’s soapy “The Patriarch.”
From the onset, the stunning vistas, handsomely photographed by Gin Loane, signal the underlying theme of the narrative: Survival belongs to the strongest, a precept that grows in significance as the plot progresses. The fierce introduction to this unforgiving environment is a shot of a large bird making a smaller one its prey in one swift motion. Through such imagery, Tamahori aims to imbue the violence that permeates with a primal quality, obeying...
From the onset, the stunning vistas, handsomely photographed by Gin Loane, signal the underlying theme of the narrative: Survival belongs to the strongest, a precept that grows in significance as the plot progresses. The fierce introduction to this unforgiving environment is a shot of a large bird making a smaller one its prey in one swift motion. Through such imagery, Tamahori aims to imbue the violence that permeates with a primal quality, obeying...
- 9/9/2023
- by Carlos Aguilar
- Variety Film + TV
Spartacus: Blood and Sand, Season 1: Episode 6 – “Delicate Things”
Written by Tracy Bellomo & Andrew Chambliss
Directed by Rick Jacobson
Originally aired February 26th, 2010 on Starz
While Ashur tries to push Batiatus into acting quickly at the news of Barca’s apparent betrayal, he tells his dominus that “When a man is pressed, lies flow with greater ease.” Daggers and deceit seem to run rampant in Spartacus, and not just in the Roman storylines. If the slaves are learning anything from their masters, it’s how to twist the tongue to their own ends.
Spartacus, our hero, is not exempt from the tactics. With newly-earned street cred., Spartacus uses the attention he receives to shape an elaborate escape fantasy for when his wife arrives to Capua. Part of that web is extending an invitation to the magistrate’s son to visit Batiatus’ villa so that Spartacus can gain access to an easily-concealable (and,...
Written by Tracy Bellomo & Andrew Chambliss
Directed by Rick Jacobson
Originally aired February 26th, 2010 on Starz
While Ashur tries to push Batiatus into acting quickly at the news of Barca’s apparent betrayal, he tells his dominus that “When a man is pressed, lies flow with greater ease.” Daggers and deceit seem to run rampant in Spartacus, and not just in the Roman storylines. If the slaves are learning anything from their masters, it’s how to twist the tongue to their own ends.
Spartacus, our hero, is not exempt from the tactics. With newly-earned street cred., Spartacus uses the attention he receives to shape an elaborate escape fantasy for when his wife arrives to Capua. Part of that web is extending an invitation to the magistrate’s son to visit Batiatus’ villa so that Spartacus can gain access to an easily-concealable (and,...
- 3/18/2015
- by Sean Colletti
- SoundOnSight
"Spartacus: Gods Of The Arena", the Starz Original series, now available from Anchor Bay Entertainment on Blu-ray and DVD, is the two-disc prequel of episodes to "Spartacus: Blood And Sand", with additonal new featurettes and behind-the-scenes footage, including a set tour with series actor Lucy Lawless.
The Blu-ray also offers extended episodes and audio commentary.
Also included is a 3D 'Ring Of Fire' battle sequence, a first for TV on Blu-Ray.
The opportunity to produce"Gods of the Arena" emerged when the second season of the ground-breaking series "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" was halted after lead actor Andy Whitfield became seriously ill.
Series creator, executive producer Steven S. DeKnight expanded a single flashback episode, for the second season of "Spartacus" into a six-part "Gods Of The Arena" mini-series, debuting January 21, 2011.
Also executive produced by Rob Tapert, Sam Raimi and Joshua Donen, "Spartacus; Gods Of The Arena", follows 'Gannicus',...
The Blu-ray also offers extended episodes and audio commentary.
Also included is a 3D 'Ring Of Fire' battle sequence, a first for TV on Blu-Ray.
The opportunity to produce"Gods of the Arena" emerged when the second season of the ground-breaking series "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" was halted after lead actor Andy Whitfield became seriously ill.
Series creator, executive producer Steven S. DeKnight expanded a single flashback episode, for the second season of "Spartacus" into a six-part "Gods Of The Arena" mini-series, debuting January 21, 2011.
Also executive produced by Rob Tapert, Sam Raimi and Joshua Donen, "Spartacus; Gods Of The Arena", follows 'Gannicus',...
- 10/12/2011
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
Spartacus Gods of the Arena The Bitter End Fire Battle Video. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End plot synopsis: “Batiatus (John Hannah) seeks vengeance against Tullius (Stephen Lovat) for all that has befallen him. He obtains the help of his gladiators and his friend Solonius (Craig Walsh Wrightson) in the cause, each seeking to right the wrongs done to them. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle of combat and blood the likes of which Capua has never seen.”
We reviewed Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: Season 1, Ep. 6: The Bitter End earlier and posted Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End: High Resolution Photos.
The Bitter End also starred Jessica Grace Smith, Lucy Lawless, Dustin Clare, Antonio Te Maioha, Nick Tarabay, and Manu Bennett among others.
Watch the Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End: Fire Battle Video...
We reviewed Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: Season 1, Ep. 6: The Bitter End earlier and posted Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End: High Resolution Photos.
The Bitter End also starred Jessica Grace Smith, Lucy Lawless, Dustin Clare, Antonio Te Maioha, Nick Tarabay, and Manu Bennett among others.
Watch the Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End: Fire Battle Video...
- 9/15/2011
- by filmbook
- Film-Book
Spartacus: Blood And Sand – The Complete First Series
Stars: Andy Whitfield, Erin Cummings, John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Peter Mensah, Manu Bennett, Nick Tarabay, Viva Bianca, Jai Courtney, Antonio Te Maioha, Lesley-Ann Brandt, Craig Parker, Katrina Law | Written by Steven S. DeKnight & others | Directed by Rick Jacobson & others
“The controversial Spartacus: Blood and Sand is the re-imagined story of Spartacus, a slave of the Roman Republic who led a slave revolt that grew to more than 120,000 fighters. Torn from his homeland and the woman he loves, Spartacus (Whitfield), a Thracian warrior is captured by Romans and enslaved into a gladiator training school owned by Batiatus (Hannah) and his wife Lucretia (Lawless).
Forced to fight daily for his life under the brutal whip of trainer Doctore (Mensah) and condemned to a life in the brutal world of the arena where blood and death are primetime entertainment, he must become more than a...
Stars: Andy Whitfield, Erin Cummings, John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Peter Mensah, Manu Bennett, Nick Tarabay, Viva Bianca, Jai Courtney, Antonio Te Maioha, Lesley-Ann Brandt, Craig Parker, Katrina Law | Written by Steven S. DeKnight & others | Directed by Rick Jacobson & others
“The controversial Spartacus: Blood and Sand is the re-imagined story of Spartacus, a slave of the Roman Republic who led a slave revolt that grew to more than 120,000 fighters. Torn from his homeland and the woman he loves, Spartacus (Whitfield), a Thracian warrior is captured by Romans and enslaved into a gladiator training school owned by Batiatus (Hannah) and his wife Lucretia (Lawless).
Forced to fight daily for his life under the brutal whip of trainer Doctore (Mensah) and condemned to a life in the brutal world of the arena where blood and death are primetime entertainment, he must become more than a...
- 5/15/2011
- by Baron Fornightly
- Nerdly
Spartacus: Gods of the Arena The Bitter End High Resolution Photos have premiered. We reviewed Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: Season 1, Ep. 6: The Bitter End earlier. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena: The Bitter End plot synopsis: “Batiatus (John Hannah) seeks vengeance against Tullius (Stephen Lovat) for all that has befallen him. He obtains the help of his gladiators and his friend Solonius (Craig Walsh Wrightson) in the cause, each seeking to right the wrongs done to them. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle of combat and blood the likes of which Capua has never seen.” The Bitter End also starred Jessica Grace Smith, Lucy Lawless, Dustin Clare, Antonio Te Maioha, Nick Tarabay, and Manu Bennett among others. We have numerous high resolution photos from the episode below. View them and leave your thoughts on them. Click to enlarge.
Dustin Clare, Spartacus: Gods of the Area,...
Dustin Clare, Spartacus: Gods of the Area,...
- 3/5/2011
- by filmbook
- Film-Book
To Spartacus Or Not To Spartacus? That Is The Question!
One of the trickier, and more challenging, aspects of my job as editor of AfterElton.com is keeping the staff shackled deciding how much to cover a new show with gay or bisexual content, or when an existing show adds a gay or bisexual character. What's tricky about that exactly? Well, if you have to ask, clearly you didn't watch the Spartacus prequel, Gods of the Arena, which wrapped up last week.
If you had, you'd know I made a pretty big deal out of the fact that the prequel was going to give gay gladiator Barca (Antonio Te Maioha) a new love interest named Auctus. Or that after interviewing Spartacus co-creator Steven DeKnight, we decreed that Gods of the Arena might be gayer than the original and that there was a steamy gay sex scene you wouldn't want to miss.
One of the trickier, and more challenging, aspects of my job as editor of AfterElton.com is keeping the staff shackled deciding how much to cover a new show with gay or bisexual content, or when an existing show adds a gay or bisexual character. What's tricky about that exactly? Well, if you have to ask, clearly you didn't watch the Spartacus prequel, Gods of the Arena, which wrapped up last week.
If you had, you'd know I made a pretty big deal out of the fact that the prequel was going to give gay gladiator Barca (Antonio Te Maioha) a new love interest named Auctus. Or that after interviewing Spartacus co-creator Steven DeKnight, we decreed that Gods of the Arena might be gayer than the original and that there was a steamy gay sex scene you wouldn't want to miss.
- 3/4/2011
- by Michael Jensen
- The Backlot
Mini-series prequel remains Champion of cable network shows.
The Set-up
Exactly one year ago, the Starz Network stupefied both critics and the public alike with Spartacus: Blood and Sand. In this mini-series prequel, show creator Steven S. DeKnight has pressed the attack, delivering Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. Debuting on January 21st, 2011, the show details the blood-drenched history of the House of Batiatus, the tale finding Batiatus as a younger man having recently acquired the ludus from his ailing father and adopting the title of lanista. The focus of the prequel series is the current Champion of Capua, a bon vivant gladiator named Gannicus whom Batiatus is resting all his ambitions upon. Long before Spartacus graced the ludus with his presence, struck fear into the Romans and captivated an entire city, blood flowed heavily in the Old Arena, a young recruit battled fiercely for his future, and an ambitious son...
The Set-up
Exactly one year ago, the Starz Network stupefied both critics and the public alike with Spartacus: Blood and Sand. In this mini-series prequel, show creator Steven S. DeKnight has pressed the attack, delivering Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. Debuting on January 21st, 2011, the show details the blood-drenched history of the House of Batiatus, the tale finding Batiatus as a younger man having recently acquired the ludus from his ailing father and adopting the title of lanista. The focus of the prequel series is the current Champion of Capua, a bon vivant gladiator named Gannicus whom Batiatus is resting all his ambitions upon. Long before Spartacus graced the ludus with his presence, struck fear into the Romans and captivated an entire city, blood flowed heavily in the Old Arena, a young recruit battled fiercely for his future, and an ambitious son...
- 2/28/2011
- Cinelinx
Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, Season 1, Ep. 6 – entitled The Bitter End – was probably the best episode drama-wise of the prequel mini-series. It also houses the longest and one of most well-executed fight scenes out of any Spartacus episode thus far. The fight also housed some surprises that the avid viewer will not see coming.
Gone are the over-the-top sexual exploits and in their place stronger story arcs and plotline resolutions.
All questions are answered about what happened to key characters in Spartacus: Gods of the Arena that do not appear in Spartacus: Blood and Sand. Tullius (Stephen Lovat)’ end was pretty creative as was the scheme that surrounded his retainer Vettius. The betrayal of Solonius (Craig Walsh Wrightson) on Batiatus (John Hannah) was unforeseen and a welcome surprise. Batiatus had been belittling Solonius since the beginning of the Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, similar to the way Lucretia was treated...
Gone are the over-the-top sexual exploits and in their place stronger story arcs and plotline resolutions.
All questions are answered about what happened to key characters in Spartacus: Gods of the Arena that do not appear in Spartacus: Blood and Sand. Tullius (Stephen Lovat)’ end was pretty creative as was the scheme that surrounded his retainer Vettius. The betrayal of Solonius (Craig Walsh Wrightson) on Batiatus (John Hannah) was unforeseen and a welcome surprise. Batiatus had been belittling Solonius since the beginning of the Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, similar to the way Lucretia was treated...
- 2/27/2011
- by filmbook
- Film-Book
"Spartacus" is not a good show, by any stretch of the imagination. The quality of writing is embarrassing, a preteen with access to Seneca and Aeschylus and the opportunity to use potty words. Honestly, see if you can go four minutes on the show without being hit in the head with a blatant profanity. If there's a chance to use a filthy word, by Jupiter's cock, they'll find a way to fit it in there. The digital effects are shameful. It looks like it was put together on a Commodore 64. It is the stupidest, dumbass slab of meat ever to cross a television screen.
And that's what makes it a fucking blast to watch.
"Spartacus" is self-aware of its' stupidity. It's proud of it. It's a wine-jug crushed on the forehead like a fratparty beercan. It's a swinging dick tea-bagged into the face of the nerdly prospect gladiator it just swirlied in the communal baths.
And that's what makes it a fucking blast to watch.
"Spartacus" is self-aware of its' stupidity. It's proud of it. It's a wine-jug crushed on the forehead like a fratparty beercan. It's a swinging dick tea-bagged into the face of the nerdly prospect gladiator it just swirlied in the communal baths.
- 1/24/2011
- by Brian Prisco
A prequel to the Starz hit Spartacus: Blood & Sand, Gods Of The Arena was originally a flashback idea the producers wanted to pursue in season 2. However, following the cancer relapse of the show’s star Andy Whitfield, the concept was expanded to became a six-part miniseries and stopgap while they recast the role of Spartacus.
There’s much to enjoy about this return of Starz’s uniquely raucous, profane and ultra-violent approach to historical drama (a pulp fusion of Zack Snyder’s 300, Ridley Scott’s Gladiator and HBO’s Rome), although there are inevitable problems with the fact it’s a prequel – not least a feeling of safety spoiling intended jeopardy, as we know which characters are destined to survive the story. It’s an unavoidable byproduct of doing a prequel, but it’s a shame became Blood & Sand was very adept at pulling off shocking deaths, so in that...
There’s much to enjoy about this return of Starz’s uniquely raucous, profane and ultra-violent approach to historical drama (a pulp fusion of Zack Snyder’s 300, Ridley Scott’s Gladiator and HBO’s Rome), although there are inevitable problems with the fact it’s a prequel – not least a feeling of safety spoiling intended jeopardy, as we know which characters are destined to survive the story. It’s an unavoidable byproduct of doing a prequel, but it’s a shame became Blood & Sand was very adept at pulling off shocking deaths, so in that...
- 1/22/2011
- by Dan Owen
- Obsessed with Film
For those of you dying with anticipation for tonight's premiere of Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, I've got a little treat! Preview pics from next week's episode featuring Barca (Antonio Te Maioha) fighting in the arena! Spartacus creator Steven DeKnight told us that he regretted the first season never saw our gay gladiator get any action (in the ring that is!) and it looks like the second episode rectifies that. Plus, there are are some fine pics of Gannicus (Dustin Clare) and the rest of the gang as well.
Enjoy! And don't forget to check back tonight for our recap of the first episode!
...
Enjoy! And don't forget to check back tonight for our recap of the first episode!
...
- 1/21/2011
- by Michael Jensen
- The Backlot
Warning: This article includes minor spoilers on the upcoming season of Spartacus: Gods of the Arena.
When actor Andy Whitfield, who played the title character in last year's break-out cable hit Spartacus: Blood and Sand, was diagnosed with cancer, it forced the producers of the show to get creative while they hopefully waited for him to recover.
The result is a six-episode "prequel" series debuting January 21st on Starz that begins with a glint in the eye of Batiatus dying at the end of Blood and Sand and takes us back to tell the story of Batiatus' ludus before Spartacus' arrival.
It also gave the producers a chance to tell a gay sub-plot that seems considerably different than the one between Barca (Antonio Te Maioha) and Pietros (Eka Darville) in Blood and Sand: Barca's earlier love affair with fellow gladiator Auctus, played by Josef Brown, an Australian dancer and actor.
When actor Andy Whitfield, who played the title character in last year's break-out cable hit Spartacus: Blood and Sand, was diagnosed with cancer, it forced the producers of the show to get creative while they hopefully waited for him to recover.
The result is a six-episode "prequel" series debuting January 21st on Starz that begins with a glint in the eye of Batiatus dying at the end of Blood and Sand and takes us back to tell the story of Batiatus' ludus before Spartacus' arrival.
It also gave the producers a chance to tell a gay sub-plot that seems considerably different than the one between Barca (Antonio Te Maioha) and Pietros (Eka Darville) in Blood and Sand: Barca's earlier love affair with fellow gladiator Auctus, played by Josef Brown, an Australian dancer and actor.
- 1/13/2011
- by Brent Hartinger
- The Backlot
While there's zero update on "Spartacus: Blood and Sand", Starz unleashed the photos of "Spartacus: Gods of the Arena" cast in their individual characters. The pics show some "Blood and Sand" characters way before Quintus Batiatus took over the Ludus and reveal the new characters such as Capua's sexy social climber Gaia.
John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Peter Mensah, Manu Bennett, Nick Tarabay and Antonio Te Maioha return as Quintus, Lucretia, Doctore, Crixus, Ashur and Barca respectively. They are joined by new faces like Jamie Murray as Gaia, Marisa Ramirez as Melitta and Jeffrey Thomas as Titus.
But the central character would be Dustin Clare's Gannicus aka the original Championship of the House of Batiatus. He lives in a more ruthless time before Spartacus' arrival where honor was just finding it's way into the arena. As the prequel begins, Quintus Batiatus is the acting Lanista while his father Titus...
John Hannah, Lucy Lawless, Peter Mensah, Manu Bennett, Nick Tarabay and Antonio Te Maioha return as Quintus, Lucretia, Doctore, Crixus, Ashur and Barca respectively. They are joined by new faces like Jamie Murray as Gaia, Marisa Ramirez as Melitta and Jeffrey Thomas as Titus.
But the central character would be Dustin Clare's Gannicus aka the original Championship of the House of Batiatus. He lives in a more ruthless time before Spartacus' arrival where honor was just finding it's way into the arena. As the prequel begins, Quintus Batiatus is the acting Lanista while his father Titus...
- 12/9/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Here is a little something to tide over you Spartacus fans until the prequel Gods of the Arena hits our televisions next month courtesy of Starz. (We can hardly wait ourselves!)
It's the first picture of Auctus who is Barca's new love interest (rest in peace, Pietros!) and we've got it exclusively! (All pictures courtesy of Starz.)
Josef Brown as Auctus
I'd previously reported that Aussie actor Josef Brown had been cast as Auctus, but this is our first glimpse of him after he'd gone through the Spartacus boot camp and been turned into a blood thirsty, tough as nails gladiator. Pretty different from Pietros, eh? So what do you think?
And here are some more pics the show released today!
Of course, we'll start with Auctus' lover Barca.
Antonio Te Maioha as Barca
Next page! Meet the new Champion of Capua!
Dustin Clare as Gannicus
Manu Bennett as Crixus...
It's the first picture of Auctus who is Barca's new love interest (rest in peace, Pietros!) and we've got it exclusively! (All pictures courtesy of Starz.)
Josef Brown as Auctus
I'd previously reported that Aussie actor Josef Brown had been cast as Auctus, but this is our first glimpse of him after he'd gone through the Spartacus boot camp and been turned into a blood thirsty, tough as nails gladiator. Pretty different from Pietros, eh? So what do you think?
And here are some more pics the show released today!
Of course, we'll start with Auctus' lover Barca.
Antonio Te Maioha as Barca
Next page! Meet the new Champion of Capua!
Dustin Clare as Gannicus
Manu Bennett as Crixus...
- 12/8/2010
- by Michael Jensen
- The Backlot
The future of Starz's Spartacus series is now in doubt. The show's lead, Andy Whitfield, has withdrawn from filming the second season.
The first season, Spartacus: Blood and Sand, tells the story of the classic gladiator and stars newcomer Andy Whitfield as the title character. The show also stars Antonio Te Maioha, Craig Parker, Erin Cummings, Lucy Lawless, John Hannah, Manu Bennett, Nick E. Tarabay, and Peter Mensah.
Whitfield was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in March and, after treatment, was declared cancer-free in May. He was training hard to get back into filming and, at Comic-Con, Whitfield said he felt "better than ever." He's now been advised by his doctors to resume aggressive treatments immediately.
In a statement, Whitfield said, "It's with a deep sense of disappointment that I must step aside from such an exceptional project as Spartacus and all...
The first season, Spartacus: Blood and Sand, tells the story of the classic gladiator and stars newcomer Andy Whitfield as the title character. The show also stars Antonio Te Maioha, Craig Parker, Erin Cummings, Lucy Lawless, John Hannah, Manu Bennett, Nick E. Tarabay, and Peter Mensah.
Whitfield was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in March and, after treatment, was declared cancer-free in May. He was training hard to get back into filming and, at Comic-Con, Whitfield said he felt "better than ever." He's now been advised by his doctors to resume aggressive treatments immediately.
In a statement, Whitfield said, "It's with a deep sense of disappointment that I must step aside from such an exceptional project as Spartacus and all...
- 9/18/2010
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Josef Brown has been cast in forthcoming Spartacus prequel Gods of the Arena. AfterElton.com reports that Brown will play a gladiator named Auctus, a new love interest for Barca (Antonio Te Maioha). Series creator Steven S. DeKnight admitted that the relationship between the pair would be "very different" to the romance shared by Barca and Pietros (Eka Darville) in Spartacus: Blood and Sand. "What I loved about the Barca/Pietros relationship was that it was a very tender relationship," he explained. "Barca would flare (more)...
- 8/18/2010
- by By Morgan Jeffery
- Digital Spy
***Warning*** This article discusses plot points for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena.
While the deaths of Barca and Pietros on the first season of Spartacus: Blood and Sand didn't spark quite the same level of outrage as did the death of Ianto Jones on Torchwood, their demise did lead to a fair bit of controversy.
Pietros and Barca
Even though many fans may not have loved what happened to the two slaves, most saw it as simply part of the story. Others, however, saw their deaths as yet another example of queer characters being killed off indiscriminately — even if Spartacus killed off plenty of straight characters as well.
Still others suspected the show had never been that interested in actually showing a pair of gay lovers, despite how well Barca and Pietros' relationship had been depicted up until then.
And despite assurances from Rob Tapert and Steven S. DeKnight,...
While the deaths of Barca and Pietros on the first season of Spartacus: Blood and Sand didn't spark quite the same level of outrage as did the death of Ianto Jones on Torchwood, their demise did lead to a fair bit of controversy.
Pietros and Barca
Even though many fans may not have loved what happened to the two slaves, most saw it as simply part of the story. Others, however, saw their deaths as yet another example of queer characters being killed off indiscriminately — even if Spartacus killed off plenty of straight characters as well.
Still others suspected the show had never been that interested in actually showing a pair of gay lovers, despite how well Barca and Pietros' relationship had been depicted up until then.
And despite assurances from Rob Tapert and Steven S. DeKnight,...
- 7/19/2010
- by michael
- The Backlot
The forthcoming prequel to Starz’s runaway hit Spartacus: Blood and Sand has recieved it’s official moniker according the shows official Facebook page.
The prequel - dubbed Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, sees Lucy Lawless and John Hannah take center stage and follows the rise of the House of Batiatus and its champions before the arrival of Spartacus. Besides Hannah and Lawless, other returning actors include Peter Mensah (Doctore), Manu Bennett (Crixus), Antonio Te Maioha (Barca), Nick E. Tarabay (Ashur), Lesley-Ann Brandt (Naevia).
Spartacus: Gods of the Arena scheduled to air on Starz January 2011...
The prequel - dubbed Spartacus: Gods of the Arena, sees Lucy Lawless and John Hannah take center stage and follows the rise of the House of Batiatus and its champions before the arrival of Spartacus. Besides Hannah and Lawless, other returning actors include Peter Mensah (Doctore), Manu Bennett (Crixus), Antonio Te Maioha (Barca), Nick E. Tarabay (Ashur), Lesley-Ann Brandt (Naevia).
Spartacus: Gods of the Arena scheduled to air on Starz January 2011...
- 7/15/2010
- by Phil
- Nerdly
Anchor Bay Entertainment, a DVD distributor, announced that it will release the first season of Spartacus: Blood and Sand on DVD and Blu-Ray on September 21, 2010.
In this original series from Starz, an American premium cable network, Spartacus (Andy Whitfield) is separated from his wife, Sura (Erin Cummings), by the Romans. Both of them are forced into slavery by the Romans and Sura is sold to a Syrian slaveholder. While in Rome, Spartacus - who is now a gladiator owned by Batatius (John Hannah) and his wife Lucretia (Lucy Lawless) - strives to survive in the arena where blood and death are primetime entertainment. However, Spartacus must also battle outside of the arena in order to become a legend.
Other members of the cast include Manu Bennett, Peter Mensah, Viva Bianca, Craig Parker, Jai Courtney, Nick E. Tarabay and Antonio Te Maioho.
Speaking about bonus materials the show's executive producers Rob Tapert,...
In this original series from Starz, an American premium cable network, Spartacus (Andy Whitfield) is separated from his wife, Sura (Erin Cummings), by the Romans. Both of them are forced into slavery by the Romans and Sura is sold to a Syrian slaveholder. While in Rome, Spartacus - who is now a gladiator owned by Batatius (John Hannah) and his wife Lucretia (Lucy Lawless) - strives to survive in the arena where blood and death are primetime entertainment. However, Spartacus must also battle outside of the arena in order to become a legend.
Other members of the cast include Manu Bennett, Peter Mensah, Viva Bianca, Craig Parker, Jai Courtney, Nick E. Tarabay and Antonio Te Maioho.
Speaking about bonus materials the show's executive producers Rob Tapert,...
- 5/20/2010
- by anhkhoido@hotmail.com (Anh Khoi Do)
- The Cultural Post
Starz have announced that pre-production is underway on a six-part prequel to their latest hit series Spartacus: Blood and Sand.
Andy Whitfield, who plays the title character in Spartacus: Blood and Sand, will appear briefly in the prequel, but Lucy Lawless and John Hannah are set to take center stage in this new series which follows the rise of the House of Batiatus and its champions before the arrival of Spartacus.
The announcement of this new series follows the postponement on production on the second season of Spartacus: Blood and Sand to allow star Andy Whitfield to be treated for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in New Zealand. His doctors indicate that the actor is responding well.
The prequel will begin production this summer in New Zealand, and is slated to air on Starz in January 2011. Besides Hannah and Lawless, other returning actors include Peter Mensah (Doctore), Manu Bennett (Crixus), Antonio Te Maioha...
Andy Whitfield, who plays the title character in Spartacus: Blood and Sand, will appear briefly in the prequel, but Lucy Lawless and John Hannah are set to take center stage in this new series which follows the rise of the House of Batiatus and its champions before the arrival of Spartacus.
The announcement of this new series follows the postponement on production on the second season of Spartacus: Blood and Sand to allow star Andy Whitfield to be treated for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in New Zealand. His doctors indicate that the actor is responding well.
The prequel will begin production this summer in New Zealand, and is slated to air on Starz in January 2011. Besides Hannah and Lawless, other returning actors include Peter Mensah (Doctore), Manu Bennett (Crixus), Antonio Te Maioha...
- 5/12/2010
- by Phil
- Nerdly
Starz, an American premium cable network, announced that it's preparing a six-part prequel of its series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. Furthermore, production on the prequel begins this summer in New Zealand and the premiere will be on January 2011.
While a title for the prequel has yet to be announced, the story will be centred on the characters of Batatius (John Hannah), the owner of a ludus (a training camp for gladiators), and Lucretia (Lucy Lawless), his wife. The story will document the rise of the House of Batatius and its champions before Spartacus arrives as a Thracian slave. A new character will be added, especially the gladiator who was champion of the House of Batiatus before Spartacus or even Crixus. Moreover, this gladiator will help to fill in the story about the people and politics in the House of Batiatus along with ancient Capua as a whole.
Returning actors will...
While a title for the prequel has yet to be announced, the story will be centred on the characters of Batatius (John Hannah), the owner of a ludus (a training camp for gladiators), and Lucretia (Lucy Lawless), his wife. The story will document the rise of the House of Batatius and its champions before Spartacus arrives as a Thracian slave. A new character will be added, especially the gladiator who was champion of the House of Batiatus before Spartacus or even Crixus. Moreover, this gladiator will help to fill in the story about the people and politics in the House of Batiatus along with ancient Capua as a whole.
Returning actors will...
- 5/11/2010
- by anhkhoido@hotmail.com (Anh Khoi Do)
- The Cultural Post
Pre-production is underway on a six-part prequel to Starz' hit original series "Spartacus: Blood and Sand." Andy Whitfield, who played the title character in the series, will appear in the prequel briefly, but Lucy Lawless and John Hannah take center stage in this story of the rise of the House of Batiatus and its champions before Spartacus arrives as a captured Thracian slave. With the title still to be determined, the prequel will begin production this summer in New Zealand, and is slated to air on Starz in January 2011. John Hannah returns as Batiatus, owner of the Ludus, along with his wife Lucretia, played by Lucy Lawless. Other returning actors include Peter Mensah (Doctore), Manu Bennett (Crixus), Antonio Te Maioha (Barca), Nick E. Tarabay (Ashur), Lesley-Ann...
- 5/11/2010
- Comingsoon.net
With much hoopla and some mixed reviews, Starz debuted their new original series, Spartacus, over the weekend. Did many watch? Will it survive?
The first season of the series, titled Spartacus: Blood and Sand, follows the legendary Roman gladiator with newcomer Andy Whitfield in the title role. The gritty series features the talents of Lucy Lawless, John Hannah, Peter Mensah, Manu Bennett, Viva Bianca, Craig Parker, Jai Courtney, Erin Cummings, Nick E. Tarabay, and Antonio Te Maioho.
According to THR, the series premiere of Spartacus drew 553,000 viewers on Starz and another 460,000 on Encore.
While those figures aren't very big, they do represent Starz's best performance in the pay-per-view channel's short history of producing original series.
Starz estimates that viewership for the first episode, once re-showings and DVR viewing are added in, will surpass...
The first season of the series, titled Spartacus: Blood and Sand, follows the legendary Roman gladiator with newcomer Andy Whitfield in the title role. The gritty series features the talents of Lucy Lawless, John Hannah, Peter Mensah, Manu Bennett, Viva Bianca, Craig Parker, Jai Courtney, Erin Cummings, Nick E. Tarabay, and Antonio Te Maioho.
According to THR, the series premiere of Spartacus drew 553,000 viewers on Starz and another 460,000 on Encore.
While those figures aren't very big, they do represent Starz's best performance in the pay-per-view channel's short history of producing original series.
Starz estimates that viewership for the first episode, once re-showings and DVR viewing are added in, will surpass...
- 1/26/2010
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
****Warning*** This post reveals the identity of the gay character in the new Starz series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. Stop reading if you do not want to know their identity.
Anyone who knows even a little about ancient Rome, Greece, etc. knows that same-sex relationships were an integral part of those societies. Of course, that doesn't mean Hollywood hasn't usually chosen to ignore that particular aspect when doing movies or shows about the era. Think Russell Crowe's Gladiator or Gerard Butler's 300 which especially oozed homoeroticism without any actual homos. Meanwhile HBO's Rome included some girl/girl pairings but left out the guys.
Obviously, not every Roman epic need have "gay" content, but it would be nice if they were occasionally inclusive, not to mention historically accurate.
Fortunately, cable network Starz is about to the record straight -- so to speak.
In the fourth episode of the season (debuting...
Anyone who knows even a little about ancient Rome, Greece, etc. knows that same-sex relationships were an integral part of those societies. Of course, that doesn't mean Hollywood hasn't usually chosen to ignore that particular aspect when doing movies or shows about the era. Think Russell Crowe's Gladiator or Gerard Butler's 300 which especially oozed homoeroticism without any actual homos. Meanwhile HBO's Rome included some girl/girl pairings but left out the guys.
Obviously, not every Roman epic need have "gay" content, but it would be nice if they were occasionally inclusive, not to mention historically accurate.
Fortunately, cable network Starz is about to the record straight -- so to speak.
In the fourth episode of the season (debuting...
- 1/4/2010
- by michael
- The Backlot
A look at some of the characters in Starz's new series "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" has been shared through a batch of cast photos. Among those who are featured individually in the images are Andy Whitfield's Spartacus, Lucy Lawless' Lucretia, John Hannah's Batiatus, Peter Mensah's Doctore, Manu Bennett's Crixus, Nick Tarabay's Ashur, Jai Courtney's Varro, Antonio Te Maioho's Barca, and Erin Cummings' Sura.
Prior to the images, Starz has released a behind the scenes video for "Spartacus". An exclusive courtesy of Ugo, the clip that was debuted on December 23 has provided some footage from the upcoming action drama series as well as featured commentaries from the stars.
Though "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" has yet to be premiered until January 22, 2010 at 10 P.M, Starz has ordered the second season of this series. The title of the second season is expected to be "Spartacus: Vengeance,...
Prior to the images, Starz has released a behind the scenes video for "Spartacus". An exclusive courtesy of Ugo, the clip that was debuted on December 23 has provided some footage from the upcoming action drama series as well as featured commentaries from the stars.
Though "Spartacus: Blood and Sand" has yet to be premiered until January 22, 2010 at 10 P.M, Starz has ordered the second season of this series. The title of the second season is expected to be "Spartacus: Vengeance,...
- 12/30/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Fans of Roman History, if you liked the HBO TV series Rome, you'd certainly consider watching Spartacus: Blood and Sand. The first season will premiere in the USA on Starz, a premium cable network, on Friday, January 22, 2010 at 10 Pm. As for the Canadian premiere, it will be on Monday, January 25, 2010 at 9 Pm on The Movie Network, a Canadian premium cable network.
Spartacus (Andy Whitfield) is separated from his wife, Sura (Erin Cummings) by the Romans. Both of them are forced into slavery by the romans and Sura is sold to a Syrian slaveholder. While in Rome, Spartacus - who is now a gladiator owned by Batatius (John Hannah) and his wife Lucretia (Lucy Lawless) - strives to survive in the arena where blood and death are primetime entertainment. However, Spartacus must also battle outside of the arena in order to become a legend.
Other members of the cast include:
* Manu Bennett as Crixus.
Spartacus (Andy Whitfield) is separated from his wife, Sura (Erin Cummings) by the Romans. Both of them are forced into slavery by the romans and Sura is sold to a Syrian slaveholder. While in Rome, Spartacus - who is now a gladiator owned by Batatius (John Hannah) and his wife Lucretia (Lucy Lawless) - strives to survive in the arena where blood and death are primetime entertainment. However, Spartacus must also battle outside of the arena in order to become a legend.
Other members of the cast include:
* Manu Bennett as Crixus.
- 12/29/2009
- by anhkhoido@hotmail.com (Anh Khoi Do)
- The Cultural Post
Starz certainly has a lot of faith in their new Spartacus series. They've ordered a second season before a single episode has even aired.
The first season of the series, titled Spartacus: Blood and Sand, is set to kick off on January 22nd on the pay-for-view channel. The show revolves around the classic gladiator and stars newcomer Andy Whitfield as the title character. The show also stars Antonio Te Maioha, Craig Parker, Erin Cummings, Lucy Lawless, Manu Bennett, Nick E. Tarabay, and Peter Mensah.
"We couldn't be happier with the first season. Spartacus delivers on all levels -- action, characters, intrigue, romance and excitement," said Starz Entertainment Evp, Programming, Stephan Shelanski. "Spartacus is the most ambitious original project we've ever undertaken, and speaks to the commitment to our subscribers to provide truly original programming along with our unmatched lineup of theatrical features."...
The first season of the series, titled Spartacus: Blood and Sand, is set to kick off on January 22nd on the pay-for-view channel. The show revolves around the classic gladiator and stars newcomer Andy Whitfield as the title character. The show also stars Antonio Te Maioha, Craig Parker, Erin Cummings, Lucy Lawless, Manu Bennett, Nick E. Tarabay, and Peter Mensah.
"We couldn't be happier with the first season. Spartacus delivers on all levels -- action, characters, intrigue, romance and excitement," said Starz Entertainment Evp, Programming, Stephan Shelanski. "Spartacus is the most ambitious original project we've ever undertaken, and speaks to the commitment to our subscribers to provide truly original programming along with our unmatched lineup of theatrical features."...
- 12/23/2009
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess, Battlestar Galactica) plays Lucretia in the upcoming Starz TV series Spartacus: Blood and Sand (known in the U.S. merely as Spartacus), and appears in her first full-frontal nude scenes opposite actor John Hannah.
To make her feel more comfortable, producers are offering her a pubic wig to cover the lower regions. "I haven't worn it yet... I was like 'have you got a red one?' We have one just in case," she remarked to WENN.
Regarding her first sex scene, Lawless added: "It's the first time I had to do a sex scene; I try to think of myself as a modern woman but, honestly, I went home and had to go straight to bed. It was so stressful. There's full frontal male nudity. You see plenty, trust me. I'm a little traumatized."
To get ready to reveal all that skin, Lawless hit the gym,...
To make her feel more comfortable, producers are offering her a pubic wig to cover the lower regions. "I haven't worn it yet... I was like 'have you got a red one?' We have one just in case," she remarked to WENN.
Regarding her first sex scene, Lawless added: "It's the first time I had to do a sex scene; I try to think of myself as a modern woman but, honestly, I went home and had to go straight to bed. It was so stressful. There's full frontal male nudity. You see plenty, trust me. I'm a little traumatized."
To get ready to reveal all that skin, Lawless hit the gym,...
- 7/28/2009
- CinemaSpy
A new trailer for Starz’s upcoming sword and sandals epic Spartacus: Blood and Sand is now online. Executive produced by Sam Raimi, the series is a graphic and visceral account of Rome’s most famous gladiator. It premieres in Januaray and stars Andy Whitfield, John Hannah, Manu Bennett, Antonio Te Maioho, Viva Bianca and Lucy Lawless. Spartacus was a slave of the Roman Republic who in 73 B.C. led a revolt that grew to more than 120,000 fighters. The story has been re-imagined for a generation of TV viewers raised on graphic novels and cutting-edge production technology. It is one of the first TV series to use virtual environments, using live-action actors against virtual sets in the style of 300 and Sin City.
- 7/28/2009
- by James Cook
- TheMovingPicture.net
Rob Tapert and Steven S. DeKnight at the TCA
During last January's TCA Press Tour, I chatted with Steven S. DeKnight, the headwriter for Spartacus: Blood and Sand, who told me that even though the new Starz series had yet to yet shoot a single scene, cast a single actor, or even write a page of the script, the show would definitely include "gay" characters.
I was happy to hear it, but as my mother-inl-aw used to wisely say, "There's many a slip between the cup and the lip." While I was hopeful that DeKnight would follow through, I was also well aware that more than one gay character has failed to make it out of the writer's head and onto our screens.
But our own Brent Hartinger recently talked with Rob Tapert, Spartacus' executive producer (and the creator of the much beloved Xena: Warrior Princess) about the show, and Tapert confirmed that Spartacus,...
During last January's TCA Press Tour, I chatted with Steven S. DeKnight, the headwriter for Spartacus: Blood and Sand, who told me that even though the new Starz series had yet to yet shoot a single scene, cast a single actor, or even write a page of the script, the show would definitely include "gay" characters.
I was happy to hear it, but as my mother-inl-aw used to wisely say, "There's many a slip between the cup and the lip." While I was hopeful that DeKnight would follow through, I was also well aware that more than one gay character has failed to make it out of the writer's head and onto our screens.
But our own Brent Hartinger recently talked with Rob Tapert, Spartacus' executive producer (and the creator of the much beloved Xena: Warrior Princess) about the show, and Tapert confirmed that Spartacus,...
- 4/28/2009
- by michael
- The Backlot
Reports are surfacing of the cancellation of Guiding Light, which would mean the end of Otalia. Please take a minute to let CBS know that while you may not have a Nielsen ratings box, you are watching the show (or have someone who watches the show non-stop and won't stop pestering you to start watching, too). Please call, e-mail and write and explain that you tune in daily and have much love for the Otalia storyline, the writing, the show. Please remember to TiVo and DVR the show, And watch the episodes on CBS.comThank you.MaryD & Mesh The following is from the Chicago Tribune Is Lucy Lawless picking up her sword again? The former “Xena: Warrior Princess” star has been cast in Starz’ new action series, “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” the network announced today. The “Spartacus” series is set in 73 B.C. Spartacus was a slave who led a revolt against the Roman Republic.
- 3/30/2009
- Ausxip.com
The following is from the Chicago Tribune Is Lucy Lawless picking up her sword again? The former “Xena: Warrior Princess” star has been cast in Starz’ new action series, “Spartacus: Blood and Sand,” the network announced today. The “Spartacus” series is set in 73 B.C. Spartacus was a slave who led a revolt against the Roman Republic. Lawless, most recently starred in “Battlestar Galactica,” plays Lucretia, who with her husband Batiatus own a gladiator camp called the Ludus. They also own the soldier-turned-slave Spartacus. According to the network, “the couple has fallen on hard times financially and has bought Spartacus hoping his fighting prowess will help them regain their status in the brutal world of gladiatorial contests.” British actor Andy Whitfield has been cast as Spartacus after what the network describes as “an exhaustive worldwide search.” He has starred in many Australian drama series, including “McLeod’s Daughters,” “Packed to the Rafters,...
- 3/30/2009
- Ausxip.com
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