Caligula

Written by Gore Vidal, the famed U.S. novelist and playwright, Caligula was originally a project ala BBC's 1976 miniseries I, Claudius, and was picked up by Penthouse owner Bob Guccione. The basic plot of Caligula is to trace the events of the short-lived decadent Roman emperor, the adopted grandson of Emperor Tiberius, who ruled the empire for four years between 37 and 41 AD. From the moment he ascends to the throne as Emperor, Caligula enforces a reign like no other, as power and corruption transform him into a deranged beast whose deeds still live on as some of the most depraved in history. Caligula is a reputedly faithful cinematic depiction of the historical events of Caligula's Rome, including the astounding decadence, sex, and debauchery that marked his reign. Financed by Penthouse Magazine magnate Guccione, who was accused of inserting hard-core sex scenes after completing photography with the impressive and esteemed cast of British actors. Contains graphic sex and violence. (Gary Reber)