As someone who has had the privilege of training and participating in the intense and intricately choreographed fights for the Syfy series “Those About to Die,” I can attest to the unparalleled level of dedication and realism that went into bringing the gladiatorial storyline to life. Moe Hashim, who portrays Kwame, the North African hunter, and I, as Viggo the Scandinavian fighter, underwent rigorous training to master our unique fighting styles. The preparation began in February with countless hours spent learning intricate choreographies for the numerous fights we were involved in.
The Peacock production titled “Those About to Die” set in Ancient Rome, starting around 79 AD under Emperor Vespasian’s rule (portrayed by Anthony Hopkins), delves into a pivotal moment in Roman history. At this time, the empire’s fate hinges on the fragility of one dynasty, and Rome prepares to unveil an extraordinary new attraction: The Colosseum, which we now recognize as a groundbreaking amphitheater.
As a huge fan, I’d describe it this way: This series takes us on an epic journey through Roman life during the first century. With intricate storylines and countless characters, it’s no small feat. The creators have put in immense effort to make us feel like we’re truly there. Before its release, I had the privilege of speaking with some of the stars and director Roland Emmerich about how they brought Ancient Rome back to life in “Those About to Die.”
Rebuilding Ancient Rome for Those About to Die
Filming “Those About to Die” in Rome, where the story unfolds, was a significant advantage for the cast and crew. Based at the renowned Cinecittà Studios, they weren’t just capturing footage in the Eternal City, but deeply experiencing its rich history while bringing a dramatized account of real events to life.
As a gamer immersed in this historical role-playing experience, I can tell you from my firsthand perspective, I filmed my scenes for the show right in the heart of Rome. Surrounding me are structures erected by those ancient emperors. Their legacy is ever-present, and no amount of reading or research can truly replicate that feeling. But stepping foot into Domitian’s very bedroom, still standing on the Palatine Hill, offers an authenticity that cannot be matched.
In reality, filming in the real bedrooms of Roman statesmen wasn’t an option for the production team. Instead, they had to create Ancient Rome through intricate set design and visual effects. They utilized advanced technology like a large LED Volume screen, similar to what’s been successfully used on shows like “The Mandalorian.” For Emmerich, who has extensive experience in visual effects-driven productions, this new opportunity was both novel and thrilling.
“The first time I used it left me enamored,” Emmerich expressed. “I could add authentic-looking details in the scenery, and afterwards, I spent a remarkable 108 days filming on this set. At times, my enthusiasm grew so much that I insisted we shoot certain scenes on the Volume stage instead.”
Bringing Gladiator Battles in the Arena to Life
At Rome’s Volume stage, “Those About to Die” were granted an opportunity to bring back to life iconic structures like the Circus Maximus and the Colosseum, showcasing their ancient grandeur. However, it was essential that real-life techniques and authenticity prevailed in the making of this production. This held true especially for its gladiatorial narrative, which revolves around Kwame (Moe Hashim), a Numidian hunter who is abducted and compelled to engage in mortal combat for his survival.
In the mock combat arena, Hashim and his Scandinavian opponent, Johannes Haukur Johanneson (portraying Viggo), worked hard to ensure their battles appeared authentic.
Hashim shared, “The training was rigorous from February to March. I began my Rome journey in February, and started filming towards the end of March. Therefore, I spent that entire period intensely preparing and mastering the choreographies for our numerous fights. What made these fight scenes authentic were the distinct fighting styles we employed. For instance, I portrayed a North African animal hunter’s fighting style, while Johannes depicted the combat techniques of the Northmen people.”
Jóhannesson commented, “Shout-out to our amazing stunt team. They put in so much effort, working with us as early as February and March. We filmed fighting scenes that we began preparing in March well into November. Each week, we practiced and perfected the moves until we felt confident. And then they’d challenge us, saying ‘Alright, now let’s do it faster.’ They consistently raised the bar for us.”
How Those About to Die Recreated Roman Chariot Racing
In “Those About to Die,” the athletic authenticity wasn’t only reserved for the gladiators. The power disputes surrounding the chariot races in Rome’s Circus Maximus were another essential aspect of the show. For Dimitri Leonidas, who portrays the famed charioteer Scorpus, this meant that at some point, he needed to truly operate a real chariot, drawn by actual horses.
“Before we were allowed to ride chariots for training, Leonidas shared, it was an enjoyable experience going through the various racing stages. But once the experts permitted us to hop on the four-horse chariots, oh wow! It’s indescribable, truly a thrill of a lifetime. Four massive Hungarian stallions at full speed. It feels like you’re riding an earthquake. Believe me, those who do it – the stuntmen and racers alike – must be brave souls indeed. Absolutely crazy stuff!”
During the filming of “Those About to Die,” Leonidas didn’t personally push the horses to their maximum speed. However, there is one vivid recollection from that set that he will forever keep with him, serving as a testament to chariot racing’s immense power.
He shared an experience where his horses unexpectedly raced during filming at Circus Maximus. “I didn’t go that fast most of the time,” he explained, “except for this instance when we were practicing, and the horses seemed determined to run. I was swept up in it, but there’s a picture taken right then, with my co-actor and me struggling to rein them in as we approached the turn. Our photographer stopped shooting, fearing an accident. In truth, I was on the chariot, and I shared his concern. But such training prepares you for unexpected situations. You put in as much effort as possible, anticipate a good outcome, but remain ready to respond if things go awry.”
He commented, “I’m thankful I lived through it as it was the one occasion I truly felt their full power take me by surprise. It’s an incredible, untamed feeling. And it’s left me with a deep appreciation for Scorpus and others who dare to do so.”
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2024-07-19 18:46