Spartacus (1960)
Stanley Kubrick's monumental epic of rebellion, freedom, and sacrifice set against the grandeur and brutality of ancient Rome.
Spartacus - Movie Information
- Original Title: Spartacus
- Release Year: 1960
- Directed by: Stanley Kubrick
- Type: Movie
- Genres: History, War, Drama, Adventure
- Runtime: 3h 17m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 13, 1960 (United States), December 8, 1960 (United Kingdom - PG), December 16, 1960 (Germany - 12), September 14, 1961 (France - TP), November 17, 1960 (Brazil - 12), May 30, 1962 (Mexico - A), December 7, 1960 (Italy - T), September 15, 1961 (Spain - 16), January 23, 1974 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: Espartaco (ES), สปาร์ตาคัส (TH), Spartacus Rebel Against Rome (US), Spartakos (GR), Spartakus (PL), Սպարտակուս (AM), 스파르타쿠스 (KR)
- Production Companies: Bryna Productions, Universal Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Spartacus - Plot
The rebellious Thracian Spartacus, born and raised a slave, is sold to Gladiator trainer Batiatus. After weeks of being trained to kill for the arena, Spartacus turns on his owners and leads the other slaves in rebellion. As the rebels move from town to town, their numbers swell as escaped slaves join their ranks. Under the leadership of Spartacus, they make their way to southern Italy, where they will cross the sea and return to their homes.
Spartacus - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and witness the epic scope of Kubrick's legendary historical drama:
They trained him to kill for their pleasure ... but they trained him a little too well
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Spartacus - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Stanley Kubrick
Main Cast
- Kirk Douglas
- Laurence Olivier
- Jean Simmons
- Charles Laughton
- Peter Ustinov
- John Gavin
- Tony Curtis
- Nina Foch
- John Ireland
- Herbert Lom
Writers
- Dalton Trumbo
- Peter Ustinov
Producers
- Edward Lewis
Spartacus - FAQs
Is Spartacus based on a true story?
Yes, Spartacus is rooted in historical fact. The real Spartacus was a Thracian gladiator who led the Third Servile War, a major slave uprising against the Roman Republic between 73 and 71 BC. The film takes creative liberties but draws heavily from this documented historical rebellion.
Who are the main actors in Spartacus?
Spartacus features an all-star cast led by Kirk Douglas in the title role, alongside Laurence Olivier as the ruthless Roman general Crassus, Jean Simmons as Varinia, Charles Laughton as Gracchus, Peter Ustinov as Batiatus, and Tony Curtis as the poet-slave Antoninus.
What is the famous "I am Spartacus" scene about?
In one of cinema's most iconic moments, Roman soldiers demand the captured slaves identify Spartacus to spare the rest. One by one, each slave stands and declares "I am Spartacus," choosing solidarity and collective defiance over self-preservation. The scene has become a universal symbol of loyalty and resistance.
Where can I stream Spartacus?
Spartacus is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Prime Video with Ads. It can also be rented or purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.
Did Spartacus win any Academy Awards?
Yes, Spartacus won four Academy Awards at the 1961 ceremony: Best Supporting Actor for Peter Ustinov, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Costume Design. It remains one of the most decorated epic films of the Hollywood golden age.
Why was Spartacus controversial when it was released?
Spartacus was controversial partly because screenwriter Dalton Trumbo was a blacklisted Hollywood figure, and producer-star Kirk Douglas publicly credited him — a bold act that helped break the Hollywood blacklist. The film also contained scenes considered provocative for the era, including the infamous "oysters and snails" dialogue.
How long is Spartacus?
Spartacus has a runtime of 3 hours and 17 minutes (197 minutes), making it one of the longer Hollywood epics of its era. The extended runtime allows the film to explore both the sweeping battle sequences and the intimate personal drama of its characters.
Who directed Spartacus and why did he disown it?
Stanley Kubrick directed Spartacus, but he later distanced himself from the film, considering it the one project in his career where he lacked full creative control. Producer and star Kirk Douglas held final authority, which conflicted with Kubrick's exacting directorial vision and perfectionist working methods.
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