
In this production, Paul Mescal’s character Lucius explores a set that replicates a complex of ancient Christian martyr tombs found in Rome, specifically his father Maximus’ tomb. This set is strategically positioned next to the set used for the prison scenes. It was challenging for the film crew to figure out how and where to shoot such intricate sequences, as Max points out: “There’s a balance between aesthetics, which often align with the practical considerations of choosing the right location for specific scenes and making them function seamlessly.”
The scene where Paul Mescal’s character Lucius visits his father Maximus’ tomb, adorned with a sword and breastplate, is modeled after a group of Christian martyr tombs in Rome. This set was placed near the prison set for filming purposes. Determining the best way to stage these scenes was a puzzle for the film team, as Max explains: “We have to strike a balance between aesthetics and practicality – deciding where to film certain sequences and making sure they fit cohesively.