Rome

As the Roman Republic approaches a period of upheaval, two soldiers find their lives entangled with people whose decisions can change the world around them. Lucius Vorenus wants order and respectability. Titus Pullo is less inclined to plan that far ahead.

Kevin McKidd and Ray Stevenson make that partnership the heart of Rome. Around them, Ciarán Hinds plays Caesar, James Purefoy is Mark Antony and Polly Walker plays Atia.

The historical setting is extensively dramatised, but the busy households and streets make it feel inhabited. I love the combination of political manoeuvring and ordinary trouble: a domestic argument can be as entertaining as a public struggle for position.

There are two seasons. The later pace is hurried in places, and I would gladly have spent longer with this cast. What exists is still among my strongest recommendations for historical television. Read my full Rome review.