The first king (2019) is an epic historical drama that takes viewers to ancient Italy, in the early raw, primordial world of Rome. Directed by Mateo Rover, the film explores the legendary founding of Rome and the life of Romulus and Remus, the twin brothers who become the mythical founders of the city. It brings life to the fierce battles of the time when the tribes fought for survival and a new civilization emerged from chaos.
The story begins with a dramatic fairy tale of the brothers who are in the middle of a violent conflict between rival tribes. The film conquers the violent nature of their world, where saving depended on power, insidious, and devotion. When the brothers create an alliance with the group’s deterioration group, they begin to falsify a new way of life, which is the basis for the growth of one of the strongest empire in history. Leadership, brotherhood, and identity have been identified as the brothers navigate the traitorous terrain, both physically and morally.
The first king is distinguished is his reasonable, sad portrait of the early civilization of man. The film avoids the romanticity of the historical environment and instead focuses on the rough realities of life in the cruel, involuntary world. Cinematography is stunning, conquered with rough landscapes and struggles between man and nature, as well as among the rival tribes. The use of minimalist but effective visual techniques enhances the raw materials of the action, creating a tense and Imeretian experience.
The performances are strong, especially by leading actors who reflect Romulus and Remus. Their intense connection is in the midst of the film, and the chemistry between them brings deeper to the trip from childhood to warriors. The auxiliary actress also delivers strong performances that enhances the emotional influence of the narrative because the characters have personal sacrifice and betrayals in the formation of their world.
The first king is not only a historical epic, but also a meditation about the emergence of power, leadership and civilization. It combines action, drama, and mythology in a convincing story that offers a visceral view of the mythical story of Rome’s birth. For lovers of historical dramas and mythology, this film provides a new, intense perspective on one of the most iconic legends of history.