Rome in 65 AD, Emperor Nero's tyrannical regime has reached its zenith, Nero's self-indulgence and excessiveness brings up the opposition against him, conspiracies threaten his power. By all means Nero tries to defend his despotic claim of sovereignty. The famous philosopher Seneca has been Nero's teacher, mentor and close advisor since childhood, he is significantly involved in his ascent. Nevertheless, Nero gets weary of Seneca and Nero uses a foiled attack on his life to falsely accuse Seneca of being an accomplice.
Acting
Malkovich doing Malkovich—detached, mannered, perfect.
Direction
Schwentke's bizarre tonal whiplash between lecture and fever dream.
Writing
Seneca quotes himself while dying—peak pretension or genius?
Director
Robert Schwentke
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The film deliberately mangles history—Seneca was likely innocent of conspiracy, not complicit for years. Schwentke uses this to indict intellectuals who serve power.
Malkovich and Schwentke previously collaborated on RED films—this is what happens when they get art house money.
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