A fictional protagonist created for the film. His experiences represent the imagined ordeal of a Roman soldier behind enemy lines in Caledonia.

While likely named after historical figures, the specific General Virilus commanding the Ninth Legion in this campaign and context is fictionalized for the film's narrative.

A fictional character embodying Pictish resistance and desire for revenge against Rome. While female warriors existed in Celtic societies, Etain's specific backstory and role are fictional.

Fictional soldier representing the experiences of rank-and-file legionaries.

Fictional soldier, representing the older, experienced legionary nearing the end of his service.

Fictional soldier representing the diverse origins of men within the Roman army.

Romans did struggle to fully subdue the tribes of Caledonia (modern Scotland) and eventually settled for consolidation behind Hadrian's Wall.

There were ongoing hostilities and campaigns between Roman forces in Britain and the northern tribes, collectively referred to later as Picts.

This is the core legend the film adapts. While the Ninth Legion was stationed in Britain, firm evidence of a campaign this far north leading to its destruction in Scotland around 117 AD is lacking. Historical consensus suggests the legion was likely transferred elsewhere later.

The film depicts the legion being wiped out based on the disappearance legend. Historical evidence points towards the legion being redeployed (perhaps to Nijmegen in Germania) or possibly suffering losses elsewhere, but not total annihilation in Scotland.

The film accurately portrays the likelihood of northern tribes using terrain knowledge and ambush tactics against marching Roman columns, a common challenge for Roman forces on hostile frontiers.

This is the fictional survival narrative based on the fictional premise of the legion's destruction in Caledonia.

The film's ending, where Roman command (represented by the anachronistic Agricola) attempts to erase the survivors to cover up the disaster, is a purely fictional plot point.

Portrays the difficult conditions, constant danger, and brutal nature of military service on the fringes of the Roman Empire.

The film uses Scots Gaelic for the Picts. While the actual Pictish language is poorly understood, it's generally thought to be related to Brittonic (like Welsh), not Gaelic. The choice was made for audience familiarity.

Visually captures the rugged, forested, and often harsh landscape of northern Britain/Scotland, providing a believable backdrop for the frontier conflict (filmed mostly in Scotland).

Depicts typical Roman frontier forts constructed of timber, reflecting archaeological understanding of such outposts. Inchtuthil was a real legionary fortress, though abandoned earlier than the film's date.

Shows Picts as fierce tribal warriors living in tune with the harsh landscape. Specific details of settlements or daily life are limited and likely generalized.

Shows segmented armor (lorica segmentata), mail (lorica hamata), helmets, shields (scuta), swords (gladii). While aiming for authenticity, some inaccuracies noted by reenactors (e.g., lack of pilum, wrist guards, details on mail).

Portrays Picts with woad-like markings, somewhat primitive attire, and sometimes non-metallic weapons (bone). Historically, they used iron weapons (spears, swords) and likely wore practical clothing like tunics. Woad use is debated/unlikely this late.

Emphasizes the cold, wet, and difficult environment, accurately reflecting the challenging conditions faced by Romans campaigning in northern Britain.

Successfully conveys the brutality, desperation, and uncertainty of warfare on the edge of the Roman Empire against resistant tribes.

The film is set around the time construction began (c. 119-122 AD), making its presence or imminent construction contextually relevant, though its completed form might be shown prematurely.