Major adult studios producing epic skin flicks has become a sort of mainstay in recent years, but the fact that Spartacus MMXII: The Beginning was created as an independent production (it is produced by Marcus London, Tommy Gunn and Miko Lee) sets it apart from other contenders. Loosely based on the Starz series, Spartacus has all the elements needed for a perfect storm of sorts: beautiful bodies, wonderfully choreographed fight scenes, amazing sets and costumes, stellar acting, a worthy plot and steamy sex scenes.

London not only wrote and stars in the movie, but also tackles directing and editing duties. His love of the project is evident throughout, from the care taken in getting just the right angle during fight scenes to the lavish debauchery of the sex scenes.

He also gets some great acting performances from the entire cast, particularly Gunn as Crixus (who seems born to play a part in this production), and Devon Lee as Lucretia Batiatus, whose delivery of dialogue is almost effortless and acting a delight to witness.

The movie also heralds the return of Miko Lee, who has not lost a step, as the Immortal Sorceress. Her acting abilities and sexual prowess are more than adequately captured.

The story is based on the tale of Spartacus, a Thracian slave brought into the House of Batiatus, a training camp for gladiators. Spartacus quickly proves himself to be a worthy adversary, and eventually leads a rebellion of the slaves alongside Crixus. The movie has the look of the Starz original series, but also has the added benefit of portraying the sex and orgies of the time.

A standout in the sex scenes comes between London and Tanya Tate as Illythia. She taunts the slave with her words, pushing him to the breaking point until he can no longer hold back his emotions and frustration and takes it out on her physically; the intensity and heat really come through. The half-dozen sex scenes are seamlessly woven throughout the plot instead of carelessly jammed in to meet a quota, which is a bonus.

In all, there isn't one aspect of Spartacus MMXII: The Beginning that doesn't work as a fuck flick or a standout piece of entertainment.