𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐢𝐞 (𝐓𝐕 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 - 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒)

Those About to Die is a grand-scale historical-epic television series set in ancient Rome, scheduled to premiere on July 18, 2024, on Peacock in the U.S. and Amazon Prime Video internationally. Directed by Roland Emmerich (Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow), alongside Marco Kreuzpaintner, the series is based on the 1958 non-fiction book of the same name by Daniel P. Mannix. With a massive $140 million production budget, Those About to Die promises to deliver a raw, brutal, and ambitious depiction of the Roman arena—where power, glory, and brutality intertwine in deadly battles for survival.

Plot Summary

Set in 79 AD, during the reign of Emperor Vespasian (played by Anthony Hopkins), the Roman Empire is at the height of its power but riddled with political intrigue and moral decay. To maintain control and pacify the masses, the Roman elite turns gladiatorial combat, chariot races, and public executions into grand spectacles, transforming them into a massive entertainment industry that captivates hundreds of thousands.

The series follows gladiators, charioteers, and individuals from various social classes—from enslaved warriors forced to fight for survival to wealthy elites manipulating these blood-soaked games for their own gain. As the arena becomes a battlefield of both strength and strategy, those seeking power must navigate a world of betrayal, greed, and ruthless competition to emerge victorious.

Beyond the gladiatorial fights, the series delves into the hidden power struggles within Rome’s ruling class, where politicians, merchants, and military leaders use the arena as a tool to eliminate rivals, consolidate influence, and manipulate the Roman public.

Cast & Characters

The series boasts a talented ensemble cast, with Anthony Hopkins (The Silence of the Lambs, Westworld) leading as Emperor Vespasian, who struggles to maintain his grip on power amidst conspiracies and rebellion.

Other notable cast members include:

• Iwan Rheon (Game of Thrones) as Tenax, a ruthless arena manager who will do anything to maintain his position.
• Tom Hughes (Victoria) as Marcus, a corrupt Roman aristocrat who revels in the arena’s violence.
• Sara Martins as Domitia, a powerful noblewoman with deep influence over the deadly games.
• Johannes Haukur Johannesson (Vikings: Valhalla) as Drustan, a foreign warrior enslaved and forced to fight for his freedom.
• Liraz Charhi as Antonia, a mysterious woman with plans to change Rome’s fate.

Production Scale & Style

As a Roland Emmerich project—known for his large-scale productions like Independence Day—Those About to Die boasts grand battle sequences and stunning visuals.

Filmed in Rome, Italy, the series features authentic recreations of iconic locations like the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, and other historical landmarks. The production team has meticulously crafted costumes, weapons, and set designs to create a realistic depiction of ancient Rome.

Using cutting-edge CGI, the series brings gladiatorial combat, massive chariot races, and high-stakes duels to life. The soundtrack, composed by Harald Kloser, adds to the intensity and grandeur of the series.

Early Reviews & Reception

Praised aspects:
✅ Spectacular visuals that immerse viewers in ancient Rome.
✅ Thrilling and brutal combat sequences that stay true to Roman history.
✅ Anthony Hopkins delivers a powerful performance as Emperor Vespasian.

With 10 episodes, each lasting around an hour, Those About to Die is a must-watch for historical epic fans, particularly those fascinated by ancient Rome’s politics, gladiators, and brutal conflicts.

Final Verdict

While Those About to Die has its flaws, it remains a bold and ambitious series that captures the grandeur and brutality of the Roman Empire. The show offers spectacular battle scenes, political intrigue, and intense gladiatorial combat, making it a thrilling watch for fans of the genre.

If you enjoyed Gladiator (2000), Spartacus (2010), or HBO’s Rome (2005), Those About to Die is a series worth checking out! 🎬🔥