This film must have taken a big pile of lire to produce. Check out those huge sets with people walking on them and within them. The Temple of Moloch is a good example, being able to accommodate large crowds and plenty of action. Watch Batto's house (another towering set) collapse on the hapless people inside. See Mount Etna erupt very realistically, ultimately bringing down Batto's home. This plus the other special effects are brilliant. Even the props (notably the pottery) are designed and made very creatively. The acting, however, is a bit overdone, but that was the norm in film and on stage in 1913-1914. It doesn't detract from the film at all. (Sophonisba is about the worst offender, but I still love her!) The direction of the picture, with crowds and all types of terrain and sets is extremely good. The story is very well paced. I highly recommend this remarkable achievement. It is a guarantee that you will enjoy it.
