News and Notes

Commentary From the Editors

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Spartacus vs. Spartacus: Who's Tougher?

Who's the tougher Spartacus: Spartacus from the new TV series Spartacus: Blood and Sand, or Spartacus from the great 1960 film Spartacus?

Andy Whitfield as Spartacus in Spartacus: Blood and Sand.

Kirk Douglas as Spartacus in the 1960 film Spartacus.

We love Kirk Douglas (going strong at 93!) and he gets extra points for looking tough in those crazy tunic-type shorts. But we still have to give the edge to Andy Whitfield. He looks nastier. Plus grimier.

On the distaff side...

Erin Cummings as Sura in Spartacus: Blood and Sand

Jean Simmons (with Dougas) as the slave Varinia in the movie Spartacus

...with apologies to Ms. Cummings, the edge goes to the late Jean Simmons, always and forever. If she doesn't break your heart in the original Spartacus, you're as callous as any Roman slave driver.

Also, incidentally, Simmons rocked The Big Country.

Now see photos of Spartacus: the Ballet!

Labels: Andy Whitfield, Erin Cummings, Jean Simmons, Kirk Douglas, Spartacus