HBO "Rome" Season Two Episode 10 Review

HBO's series "Rome" concluded Sunday night with one of the series' best episodes. After two seasons and over a hundred million dollars sunk into its elaborate production, "Rome" ended with the triumph of Octavian to "First Citizen," and the deaths of Cleopatra, Mark Antony, and Lucius Varinus. It was a triumphant end for the show that will leave "Rome" fans clamoring for another season. Indeed, there is already an online petition to pressure HBO to do another season.

The episode began with Mark Antony's naval defeat at the Battle of Actium. It's a different Mark Antony. Instead of the cocky, arrogant power-monger, we see a beaten, resigned man. James Purefoy does perhaps his finest job portraying the complex character that was Mark Antony. His death scene was particularly poignant and powerful.

Purefoy's fantastic performance as Antony contrasted greatly with Lyndsey Marshal's Cleopatra. She seemed wooded and unbelievable, and her death scene was a disappointment.

But the stars of "Rome" and the most likable characters turn out to be not one of the nobility or royalty, but two foot soldiers who find themselves part of history: Lucius Vorenus, played by Kevin Mckidd; and Titus Pullo, played by Ray Stevenson. The friendship between the two seemed very believable and, at times, tender and touching.

Overall, the show ended well. But perhaps HBO could've made a two hour season finale. This would've made some things tidier for all the characters. But overall, I'm sad to see the show end, but I'm looking forward to watching all 23 episodes over again on DVD!