The rebellious Spartacus (Kirk Douglas), born and raised a slave, is sold to gladiator trainer Batiatus (Peter Ustinov). After weeks of being trained to kill for the arena, Spartacus turns on his owners and leads the other slaves in a revolt against the Roman Republic. As the rebels move from town to town, their numbers swell when escaped slaves join the ranks. Under the leadership of Spartacus, they make their way to southern Italy, where they seek to cross the sea and return to their homes. Tony Curtis, Laurence Olivier, and Jean Simmons also star. 

A standout from the “Swords and Sandals” genre of movie epics, this film complements the exhibition Art and Life in Imperial Rome: Trajan and His Times.

Tickets

• $9 general admission; $7 MFAH members, students with ID, seniors (65+)

Plan Your Visit

• This screening takes place in Brown Auditorium Theater in the Law Building.
• Parking Information | Museum Hours | MFAH Campus Map

This 4K digital restoration follows the format of the original roadshow version with an overture, intermission, entr’acte, and exit.