L’ultimo gladiatore (1964)

by Linda Kay

English Title: Messalina vs. the Son of Hercules

Directed by: Umberto Lenzi

Synopsis: Political intrigue and maneuvering move the plot as unpopular Roman Emperor Caligula (Charles Borromel) captures the noble and hunky warrior Glaucus (Richard Harrison) and brings him back to Rome, sparking the interest of Claudius’ conniving wife Messalina (Lisa Gastoni).

Kitty Cameo: In the opening battle scene, Caligula sits safely away from the fighting in his lectica, stroking a cream colored tabby cat as he excitedly watches the carnage his men are inflicting on the Britains. Later in the scene the cat is nowhere in sight and does not return.

L'ultimo gladiatore - Messalina vs. the Son of Hercules - Caligula Charles Borromel sitting in lectica during battle with cream colored tabby cat
L'ultimo gladiatore - Messalina vs. the Son of Hercules - Caligula Charles Borromel sitting in lectica during battle with cream colored tabby cat
L'ultimo gladiatore - Messalina vs. the Son of Hercules - Caligula Charles Borromel sitting in lectica during battle with cream colored tabby cat
L'ultimo gladiatore - Messalina vs. the Son of Hercules - Caligula Charles Borromel sitting in lectica during battle with cream colored tabby cat
L'ultimo gladiatore - Messalina vs. the Son of Hercules - Caligula Charles Borromel sitting in lectica during battle with cream colored tabby cat animated gif

Final Mewsings: When going into battle, even as an observer, leave your kitties at home.

Many thanks to Nick Wale for letting us know about the cat in this film.

Relevant Links:

IMDb logo




To discuss this film and other cats in movies and on television, join us on Facebook and X.

Share this with your cat and movie loving friends!