The historical spectacle of Diocletian: one of the largest film projects shot in Croatia

A major historical spectacle titled Posljednji rimski bog (The Last Roman God) has been produced by Croatia's national broadcaster HRT, marking one of the country’s largest and most ambitious cinematic projects to date. The film, set during the final quarter of the third century AD, chronicles the political rise and personal struggles of Emperor Diocletian, born around 250 in Salon (modern-day Solin, Croatia). It premiered in Croatian cinemas on October 29, 2026, following months of preparation and production. The 140-minute film, directed and written by Božidar Domagoj Burić, was accompanied by a five-part documentary series titled Prvi splićanin (The First Split Citizen), which will be available on HRT later. The project, with a budget of 10 million euros, represents one of the most expensive and complex productions ever undertaken by HRT. According to the Croatian magazine Nacional, this level of investment underscores the significance of the project both nationally and internationally. Burić, who also serves as the film’s producer, explained that years of preparation were necessary for filming. Other producers include Robert Šveb, Marija Kosor, and Marko Kaić. The team included scenographer Igor Juras, costume designers Željka Franulović and Ana Kala Kovačević, and composer Srđan Sekulović-Skansij. The production involved building detailed sets of the Roman Forum, Senate, parts of the Colosseum, and amphitheaters. Over 1,000 authentic costumes and more than 100 historically accurate weapons were created, reflecting the scale and ambition of the project. Burić described the effort behind the costumes, stating that nearly 5,000 different costume elements, ranging from clothing and footwear to accessories and weaponry, were prepared. This attention to detail extends beyond visual presentation, aiming to immerse viewers in the historical context of the era. The cast includes Amar Bukvić as Diocletian, Nataša Janjić Medančić as his wife Priska, Slavko Sobin as co-ruler Maximilian, Marko Cindrić as Emperor Carinus, Krešimir Mikić as military leader and politician Lucius Flavius, and Dragan Despot as Senator Proculus. Mladen Badovinac plays the narrator, guiding audiences through the narrative. The film presents Diocletian not merely as a political figure but also as a man grappling with personal dilemmas, showcasing both the positive and negative aspects of his character and relationships. His reign, marked by reforms and military campaigns, culminated in the construction of a palace in Split, where he lived until his death in 316. The production took place in Croatia, leveraging local talent and resources while drawing upon international expertise. The choice of location reflects the deep historical ties between the region and the Roman Empire, particularly during the late third century. The project aims to educate and entertain, offering a nuanced portrayal of a pivotal moment in European history.