Nero's Golden House (2001)

In Nero's Golden House (2001), the veil of mystery is lifted from the grandest architectural marvel of its time, a symbol of opulence and notoriety. Constructed by the infamous Emperor Nero, the grand edifice was an embodiment of his excessive desires and decadent lifestyle. This palace was a stage for violent drama, erotic extravagance, and breathtaking beauty, so overwhelming that even the Romans erected the Colosseum atop its remnants. Today, a handful of rooms endure, silent witnesses to a new exploration aimed at unravelling the truth from layers of myth. The film embarks on an enthralling detective journey, questioning the notorious reputation of Emperor Nero. Was he as malevolent as history painted him, or was there a grain of artistic genius and innovative design in his character, unjustly smeared over time? Could the 'Golden House' be an unacknowledged masterpiece of architecture? Nero's vision was grand and audacious; he sought to materialize a symbol of Roman supremacy on land and sea. Hundreds of rooms adorned with countless frescoes and statues, each masterpiece vying for attention, revealed the emperor's unapologetic indulgence in the finest art. Towering above all, a 120-foot statue of Nero as the omnipotent ruler marked the entrance. This was the Colossus, the inspiration for the Colosseum's eventual name. Upon completion, Nero declared, "Good, now I can at last live like a human being." Nero's Golden House (2001) is a visually stunning film that dissects the reality behind this magnificent structure's myth. It delves into the intriguing question of Nero's true identity and sheds light on the reign of Roman emperors, creating an immersive journey into the heart of ancient Rome. This cinematic exploration promises to captivate viewers, challenging perceptions and igniting curiosity about the enigmatic Nero and his golden abode.

Nero's Golden House is a documentary movie featuring Samuel West and directed by Phil Grabsky.

Nero's Golden House is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Magellan TV.

It is also possible to rent Nero's Golden House on Amazon Video.