Pompeii
Clea Saldania-Rountree
Model, Actress, former Beauty Queen
Where did you see the movie?
I saw the movie at Koko Marina with my mother, Gina Saldania, who always had a fascination with the old city of Pompeii since she studied it in middle school.
Overall, what did you think?
The movie was very good. There were too many fight scenes, but having gladiators in a movie, it was to be expected. I originally thought this movie would be a true story about the characters caught in this disaster. However, it was the typical love story and action-packed gladiator-fighting movie that used the real-life disaster as its backdrop.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
My favorite scene happens to be the ending of the movie. It was beautifully bittersweet.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
I would give it ★★★★.
How was the cinematography?
I really loved this period piece with the costumes, the set design, special effects and how they re-created the city of Pompeii and its location near Mount Vesuvius. My family and I traveled to Pompeii in Italy and walked through the ruins. I feel the movie captured its essence, which was eerily captivating.
What was the movie’s message or theme?
It was a historic period piece of the typical Roman Empire versus the slave/gladiator battle epic with less gore, thank God, and with a touch of a love story in spectacular 3-D effects. The effects were so good, you don’t even have to watch it in 3-D.
I love how accurately they re-enacted the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, and how it buried the city with its hot ashes, entombing the bodies. When you visit Pompeii, you actually see the life preserved in the relics – people and animals – as portrayed in the movie.
Did it remind you of any other works?
Yes, Gladiator.
To whom would you recommend this movie?
To anyone who loves Roman and Greek history, sword-fighting gladiator-style, love and 3-D special effects. It’s especially for teens and adults.
Did any of the actors stand out?
I thought Milo (Kit Harington) was handsome with a quiet, mysterious and smoldering strength. Cassia (Emily Browning) was beautiful to look at. Also, I liked Atticus (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje) playing the enemy-turned-protector ally to Milo, who was very mesmerizing in the TV series Lost, which I was fortunate to act on.
Would you watch this movie again?
Yes, I would – it’s a beautiful movie with good-looking actors.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
Popcorn with mochi crunch.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
I have two calendars out right now: 2015 Girls of the Hawaiian Islands and the 2015 Beautiful Girls of Las Vegas, available at ABC stores. Also, look for me in the independent film Jade Dragon in festivals later this year.
