About this Short Film
Rotten Romans, from Warrawong High School (Australia, 2016), is a short, cheeky school film that imagines a roadside Roman poo seller pitching composted human waste as premium fertiliser. Told through a brisk exchange between seller and farmer, the piece leans into broad, irreverent humour and playful historical curiosity, turning an everyday aspect of ancient life into a comic moment. Its lively performances and simple conceit make it immediately accessible to school audiences and festival-goers who enjoy student work, history oddities and light satire. As a compact student-made sketch, Rotten Romans offers a fun, conversation-starting glimpse of material culture and daily routines that fits comfortably within the Focus on Ability festival programme.
Film Details
Film Transcript
No thanks, I make my own.
I said no, but sir, I cleaned the communal toets in the city, so the poo that I collect is very high quality.
Your poo is peasant poo, full of cabbages and turnips, but this is Straight From the Bottom of Roman C, sir. They have a very rich diet, full of fruit and meat. Think of the nutrients.
Well, I suppose I do have some trouble making enough for the whole field.
Ah, you won't regret this. Suit. Okay then, I'll take some to try. It's the best decision you have ever made.
Oh, why don't you look at that. M, lovely. Ah, your cops will flourish. Goodbye sir. I should have asked for a bag.
That's right. Roman toilet cleaners used to sell poo to Farmers and there was plenty of it, I can tell you, because Rich Romans love to stuff themselves silly at dinner parties.
rotten romens
Filmmaker
Warrawong High School is the filmmaker behind this entry. See every Focus on Ability entry from Warrawong High School.
