Spartacus: Gods of the Arena (2011)

When its over, this was one of the best prequels to a television series I have seen so far.  The season's six episodes may seem little in number compared to some major network shows which run about 12 episodes and up, and what it lacked in quantity, it made up in quality. There's a whole lot more nudity and orgies than its predecessor, Spartacus: Blood and Sand, which at most times, were unneccessary, but for the network, I imagine it's a neccessity for ratings and viewership.  The prequel tells the story, before the arrival of Spartacus, of the original Champion of the House of Batiatus - Gannicus, who through skill, bravery, and some luck, gains his freedom.  But the road to freedom took six episodes filled with characters we knew so well from "Blood and Sand."  The talented writers did a successful job intertwining storylines and bridging the two seasons - Gods of the Arena and Blood and Sand - together.  We learn how Crixus becomes the new champion.  We learn how Oenomaus becomes Doctore and how his beloved wife dies.  We discover how Ashur becomes crippled.  And so much more...

My rating: 4 out of 5