The Last Legion (2007)
The Last Legion (2007)
The Last Legion (2007) is a historical adventure film set in the turbulent period of the fall of the Roman Empire. Directed by Doug Lefler, the film combines elements of action, fantasy, and history, weaving a story around the last vestiges of the Roman Empire and the origins of the legendary sword, Excalibur.
The plot is set in the 5th century AD, at a time when the Western Roman Empire is collapsing under pressure from barbarian invasions and internal strife. The film follows the final days of the Roman Empire as the last Roman Emperor, Romulus Augustus (played by Thomas Sangster), is overthrown by the barbarian leader Odoacer (played by Peter Mullan), who seizes control of the empire. The young emperor is sent into exile, and his only chance of survival lies in the hands of a loyal legion of soldiers and an enigmatic tutor, Ambrosinus (played by Ben Kingsley).
The story unfolds as Romulus, along with his protector, the warrior Aurelius (Colin Firth), and the beautiful and mysterious warrior warrior Mira (Aishwarya Rai), embarks on a perilous journey to the remote land of Britannia to gather support and prepare for a final battle to reclaim the Roman Empire. Along the way, they must confront treacherous foes, navigate the changing political landscape, and protect the last remnants of Roman civilization.
In the waning days of the Roman Empire, the last Roman Emperor, Romulus Augustus, is a young and inexperienced ruler who is overthrown by the barbarian general Odoacer, who takes control of the empire. Romulus is exiled to the remote island of Capri, where he meets a group of loyal soldiers led by the battle-hardened Aurelius. Together, they attempt to protect the emperor and defend the honor of Rome.
During their journey, they cross paths with Ambrosinus, a wise and mystical tutor who harbors a great secret: he is a guardian of the sword of the legendary King Arthur, Excalibur. With the help of this powerful symbol of Roman and British heritage, the group travels to Britain, where they hope to find refuge and muster a force to retake Rome from Odoacer’s rule.
However, they must contend with treacherous forces, including the scheming political ambitions of Odoacer’s allies and the barbarian warriors who threaten to overwhelm the empire’s final outposts. As Romulus learns the true meaning of leadership, the group prepares for a final confrontation that could restore the empire or mark its permanent end.
The film blends historical fiction with elements of Arthurian legend, creating a tale of adventure and honor, where the sword of Excalibur becomes a central artifact in the quest for power and justice.