ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Alessio Lapice on Playing Romolo in Matteo Rovere's 'Il Primo Re'

other · 2026-05-04

Alessio Lapice discusses his role as Romolo in Matteo Rovere's film 'Il Primo Re', which depicts the legendary founding of Rome. The film, set in 753 BC, follows brothers Romolo and Remo as they struggle for survival. Lapice describes the movie as both physical and emotional, emphasizing the strong bond between the brothers. He prepared through anthropological study and physical training, including learning archaic Latin and sword fighting. The film was shot entirely outdoors in extreme natural conditions, using natural light and real weather. Lapice calls it a 'raw spectacle' akin to 'The Revenant'.

Key facts

  • Alessio Lapice plays Romolo in Matteo Rovere's film 'Il Primo Re'
  • The film is about the legendary founding of Rome
  • Set in 753 BC
  • Focuses on brothers Romolo and Remo
  • Lapice did anthropological research for the role
  • Learned archaic Latin for the film
  • Shot entirely outdoors with natural light
  • Filmed in swamps, mud, cold, and rain
  • Used real metal swords that sparked during fights
  • Lapice describes the film as a 'raw spectacle' like 'The Revenant'

Entities

Artists

  • Alessio Lapice
  • Matteo Rovere
  • Alessandro Borghi
  • Margherita Bordino

Institutions

  • Artribune

Locations

  • Casal di Principe
  • Roma
  • Italia

Sources