Paterfamilias

If one concentrates on the best then this episode has exciting and well-choreographed fights, alluring women, heartstrings-tugging emotion, charismatic characters, further development of the plot and a touch more authenticity than a few other, prior and following episodes. However should one concentrate on the bad, then it can be seen that a few of the fights or moments within the fights are very poorly choreographed and/or lack continuity, the slow-mo and special effects are not well done, the threesome at the beginning is cringy and hilarious (thank the gods it was interrupted), and there's still some unpleasant stuff that - while authentic to life as depicted - makes it difficult for me to entirely enjoy what I'm seeing.

The episode began where the previous one left off,with the mantle of Doctore placed on Oenomaus & Gannicus assuming the position of champion for the upcoming games.To celebrate his victory,Batiatus indulges in this season's new kind of adventure- a ménage à trois.

The arrival of his father & subsequent chastising of his activities puts Batiatus in a foul mood.With son in tow,father vows to return the house of Batiatus to its former 'Honor and Glory' by taking action with regards to his son's activities,while he was absent.We see,Gannicus shamed by his activities,refusing to look his Doctore in the eye.This relationship between Gannicus-Mellita-Oenomaus is proving to be quite an attraction this season getting very little screen time,but being quite emotionally drawn out.

Ashur and his friend are also involved with the plot this episode,putting him in the limelight.Still waiting to witness the incident which caused him to lose his leg and forever lose his place among the gladiators of the ludus. Mellita is saved the blushes as the 'hidden fruits & flavors' of the house of Batiatus are brought into the fray once again.Once again,Spartacus:Gods of the Arena,does not shy away from its sex,be it homo-erotic or otherwise.This bold approach is one of the factors which has made it an instant classic.

With promise of further twists & complications as half the season is over(The prequel is slated for 6 episodes only),the second half seems to be winding towards a strong finish.Although,we know how most of it is going to end,I still look forward to any curve balls the writers are going to throw at us.

My score:8/10