Peacock has unveiled first-look images from “Those About To Die,” a grand drama set in ancient Rome, which promises to be a cinematic spectacle of epic proportions. The series, helmed by the acclaimed director Roland Emmerich, boasts Academy Award-winner Anthony Hopkins in a lead role, sparking tremendous anticipation among fans and critics alike.
Joining Hopkins in this ambitious venture are a stellar roster of talent including Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, and Dimitri Leonidas. Peacock has announced that all ten episodes of this highly anticipated series will be available for streaming starting Thursday, July 18. The release date has fans marking their calendars in anticipation of their immersion into the blood-soaked arenas of ancient Rome.
“Let the games begin ⚔️ #ThoseAboutToDie arrives July 18 on Peacock,” the streaming service teased through a vibrant tweet, capturing the tenor of the show with authentic excitement.
The series, created by Robert Rodat, is based on Daniel P. Mannix’s nonfiction book of the same name. “Those About To Die” delves into the dark, spectacle-driven world of ancient Roman entertainment, pulling back the curtain on the gladiatorial games that both thrilled and appalled the empire’s denizens. These games were much more than mere sports; they were a powerful aspect of Roman culture and politics, used to placate the masses and assert the emperor’s dominance.
Director Roland Emmerich, best known for his work on blockbuster films such as “Independence Day,” “The Day After Tomorrow,” and “2012,” shares directing duties on this project with Marco Kreuzpaintner. Each director oversees five episodes of the series, ensuring a blend of their distinct cinematic styles throughout the storyline.
The executive production team comprises a veritable powerhouse lineup, including Roland Emmerich, Harald Kloser, Gianni Nunnari, Robert Rodat, Stuart Ford, Lourdes Diaz, Miguel A. Palos Jr., Marco Kreuzpaintner, Herbert G. Kloiber, Martin Moszkowicz, Oliver Berben, Jonas Bauer, Charles Holland, and Namit Malhotra. This impressive assembly of executive producers underscores the high stakes and significant investment in bringing this historical epic to screens.
Robert Rodat’s involvement as creator and executive producer adds a layer of gravitas to the project. Rodat is an acclaimed screenwriter, best known for his work on the Academy Award-winning “Saving Private Ryan.” His narrative expertise is expected to enrich “Those About To Die” with depth and authenticity, ensuring that the depiction of ancient Rome is both compelling and historically resonant.
Anthony Hopkins, who portrays the character in a leading role, is an actor of immense repute, his performances marked by their intensity and nuance. His involvement in the series brings with it a pedigree of exceptional talent. Hopkins’ character is expected to navigate the treacherous political waters of Rome, adding layers of intrigue and drama to the gladiatorial spectacles.
The supporting cast members, Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, and Dimitri Leonidas, each bring their unique flair to the series. Rheon, known for his chilling portrayal of Ramsay Bolton on “Game of Thrones,” is expected to bring a similar edge to his role. Sara Martins, with her previous work on “Death in Paradise,” along with the talents of Hughes, Macari, Hashim, and Leonidas, ensures a diverse and dynamic ensemble that adds richness to the narrative.
“Those About To Die” is poised to offer a multifaceted portrayal of ancient Rome’s brutal gladiatorial games, delving into the socio-political machinations behind them. Through its storytelling, it promises to capture the fragile human drama amidst the historical grandeur, bringing to life a period marked by violence, power struggles, and intricate societal norms.
The show’s visuals, judging by the first-look images, are nothing short of stunning. The recreation of ancient Rome is detailed and immersive, promising to transport viewers back to a world both familiar and alien, replete with the grandeur and grit of the era.
As fans and historians alike look forward to the series’ debut, “Those About To Die” stands out for its potential to redefine historical drama on television. With a blend of intricate storytelling, powerful performances, and breathtaking visuals, it is set to be a landmark series for Peacock, further establishing the streaming service as a home for high-quality original content. July 18 will mark the beginning of this descent into the fascinating, brutal world of Rome—as viewers join Anthony Hopkins and the star-studded cast on an unforgettable journey.
