Before the advent of legendary Spartacus in
Spartacus (2010) and before becoming the greatest lanista in the Republic, an inexperienced but rapaciously ambitious Quintus Lentulus Batiatus finds himself stuck in an all-out power struggle. Having grown up in the shadow of his father Titus, Batiatus thirsts for recognition, wealth, and status, dreaming of rising far above his judgemental parent by choosing and training a new breed of gladiators. And before long, Crixus, an untamed and promising Gaul, sets foot in the ludus' blood-soaked sand. But it takes more than an ambitious plan and a supportive wife to win favour with Capua's respected merchant Tullius and participate in the opening games of the new arena. Can mighty Gannicus, the Celt, help tip the balance in favour of the House of Batiatus?
—Nick Riganas