Watch Masada

Masada, a 1981 television miniseries, recounts the story of the Roman siege of the Jewish fortress Masada in AD 73. The show features an ensemble cast of talented actors, including Peter O'Toole, Peter Strauss, Barbara Carrera, Anthony Quayle, Paul L. Smith, David Warner, Nigel Davenport, Denis Quilley, Timothy West, David Opatoshu, Jack Watson, Joseph Wiseman, Richard Basehart, and Gert G.

Peter O'Toole stars as Roman General Cornelius Flavius Silva, who leads the Roman army in the siege of Masada, a fortress that served as the last stronghold of Jewish rebels. Peter Strauss plays the role of Eleazar ben Ya'ir, the Jewish leader of the Masada rebellion. Barbara Carrera essayed the part of Sheva, a beautiful assassin working for the Romans, who infiltrates the rebels to further the Roman cause.

The series begins with the Roman army laying siege to Masada, desperate to end the rebellion and subjugate the Jewish people. The defenders of Masada hold out against impossible odds, defended by the charismatic Eleazar ben Ya'ir, who is resolved to fight and die for his cause. The Romans are led by General Silva, who is equal parts cunning and ruthless in his tactics to subdue the Jewish rebels.

As the siege drags on, the stakes get higher, and the tension escalates. The defenders face dwindling supplies and rationing of food and water. They are also weakened by the emotional toll the siege has taken on them, with some questioning the wisdom of their resistance. The show explores the deep ideological divide between the Jews and the Romans, delving into their cultural and religious differences, and the events that led to the conflict.

Masada is not just a tale of war and bloodshed. It is a story of human emotions, beliefs, and values. It explores the complex decisions people make when faced with difficult choices, and the sacrifices they make for their beliefs. Barbara Carrera's character, Sheva, adds an element of intrigue and sensuality to the series, providing a counterpoint to the grim realities of siege warfare.

The show boasts high production values, with excellent period costumes, sets, and props. The battle scenes are realistic and intense, capturing the chaos and brutality of ancient warfare. The series features a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack by composer Jerry Goldsmith, which underscores the emotional weight of the story.

The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, with Peter O'Toole and Peter Strauss at the forefront. O'Toole's General Silva is a complex character, with a tragic back story that informs his actions. Strauss's Eleazar ben Ya'ir is a figure of mythic proportions, a leader whose unwavering faith and dedication to his cause inspires his followers.

Overall, Masada is a gripping and thought-provoking historical drama that explores the cultural divide between the Jews and the Romans. It is a testament to the human spirit and the power of conviction in the face of impossible adversity.