“Those About to Die” is a gripping drama. It is set in ancient Rome, amid the brutal gladiatorial games. It explores the corrupt underbelly of this blood-soaked sport. It shows the brutal pursuit of power and profit. It fed the masses’ hunger for entertainment. The series features a diverse cast of characters. They include ambitious gladiators and scheming politicians. Their lives intertwine in a deadly dance of ambition, betrayal, and survival.
Enter the brutal, captivating world of ancient Rome with Peacock’s new historical drama, “Those About to Die.” This epic series premiered on July 18, 2024, and all 10 episodes are available for streaming. It immerses viewers in the gladiatorial games, where bloodlust and greed reign.
Setting the Scene
The series is set in the Roman Empire, circa 80 AD, during the reigns of Emperors Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian. It depicts a society obsessed with violence and spectacle. “Those About to Die” goes beyond the arena’s blood-soaked sands. It delves into the politics, betrayals, and power struggles that surround the games.
Behind the Series
Daniel P. Mannix wrote the non-fiction book that inspired the series. It features a talented cast that portrays characters from all walks of life.
- Gladiators
- Slaves
- Nobles
- Emperors
Their fates intertwine in the deadly arena. The show explores these individuals’ complex motives and ambitions. It reveals their struggles for survival, glory, and influence.
Visual and Critical Acclaim
“Those About to Die” is a visual feast. Robert Rodat, known for “Saving Private Ryan,” developed it. Roland Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner directed it. Critics have praised the series for its stunning production. It revives the majestic splendor and savage intensity of ancient Rome.
Impressive performances match one another. The cast brings their intricate personas to life with conviction.
Viewer Discretion Advised
The show is thrilling and immersive. However, it has a TV-MA rating due to its graphic violence and mature themes. This is not a show for the faint of heart. It shows, without fear, the brutality of the gladiatorial games and the dark side of Roman society.
Why You Should Watch
If you love historical dramas, political intrigue, or survival tales, watch “Those About to Die.” Peacock offers all 10 episodes in the US, while Amazon Prime Video distributes them globally. You can binge this captivating world at your own pace.
Prepare to travel back to a time when the roar of the crowd and the clash of steel determined the fate of men and empires. “Those About to Die” is a brutal, fascinating look at a dark chapter in human history. It is both visceral and thought-provoking.
Main Cast
The show features a talented cast, including:
- Anthony Hopkins
- Iwan Rheon
- Sara Martins
- Tom Hughes
- Jojo Macari
- Moe Hashim
- Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson
- Rupert Penry-Jones
- Gabriella Pession
- Dimitri Leonidas
- Emilio Sakraya
- David Wurawa
- Pepe Barroso
- Gonçalo Almeida
- Eneko Sagardoy
- Romana Maggiora Vergano
- Lara Wolf
- Angeliqa Devi
- Kyshan Wilson
- Alicia Edogamhe
Production Team
The series is directed by:
- Roland Emmerich
- Marco Kreuzpaintner
Creator / Writer: Robert Rodat
Executive Producers:
- 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
- Namit Malhotra