HÉLIOGABALE


Héliogabale, decadent in his luxury, calls his former lover Zotikos from prison and makes him a witness to his self-worshipping rituals.


Set in 222 AD, this film tells the story of Héliogabale, a self-worshipping emperor who has reached the pinnacle of his moral decay. Héliogabale summons his former lover Zotikos from prison and includes him in his destructive world. Zotikos becomes a witness to Héliogabale's self-worship rituals and follows the path to his downfall. This brings about the end of Héliogabale's reign.

The film presents a tragic and striking portrait of Héliogabale's downfall. Watching his own narcissism and destructiveness both disturbs and captivates the viewer. Zotikos' character, on the other hand, intensifies the sorrow and astonishment we feel while watching Héliogabale's fall.

The film was shot in original Roman locations to recreate the ostentatious atmosphere of Héliogabale's palace and the splendor of the Roman Empire.