Factual error: Aetius' troops don't look anything like 5th century Roman soldiers. They are carrying a large rectangular shield, a pilum (a spear which was used for throwing) and a sword (gladius) on their right. This was typical for the Roman army until about the 3rd century A.D. In Aetius' time, the soldiers would have had smaller oval shields, a hasta (a lance used for stabbing and for fending off cavalry attacks) and a sword (spatha) on their left. Also, there would be an enormous amount of "barbarian" mercenaries in the Roman army (Goths, Vandals, even Huns.), so it was hardly a Roman army anymore. And where's Aetius' cavalry?
Attila (2001)
Directed by: Dick Lowry
Starring: Gerard Butler, Powers Boothe, Tommy Flanagan, Steven Berkoff, Simmone Mackinnon, Andrew Pleavin, Pauline Lynch, Reg Rogers
Other mistake: In the party/orgy scene where Aetius is showing off Rome to Attila, one can see a woman with her back to us reveal herself to a man and woman. Despite her veil, one can see her thong underwear. This type of underwear is a 20th century innovation.
Continuity mistake: When Aetius is about to leave Rome, he tells Valentinian he's going to Ravenna to take command of the 3rd Legion. The banners of this legion, however, have "LEG XX" on them, which means this is actually the 20th Legion.
Trivia: In the movie, a soldier called Petronius unsuccessfully tries to murder the emperor Valentinian. The name "Petronius" was probably chosen because in reality the emperor was eventually killed by a senator called Petronius.
Flavius Aetius: Let's make a bargain here and now, a treaty of peace between your people and mine.
Attila the Hun: I think that's the first sign of weakness I've seen you show.
Ildico: You do you marry, me or N'Kara?
Attila the Hun: Trickery and deceit. That is the way of the Romans, not of the Huns.
Flavius Aetius: Yes, but which way rules the world?
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