As a history enthusiast with a particular fascination for Ancient Rome and its gladiatorial games, I was absolutely thrilled to discover “Those About to Die” on Peacock. With a background in archaeology and having spent countless hours poring over historical texts and artifacts, I was eager to see how this series would bring the rich and complex world of Ancient Rome to life.
The ancient city of Rome in 79 AD has never appeared more captivating on screen. However, Peacock’s new series “Those About to Die,” set in Ancient Rome, doesn’t quite reach greatness. This doesn’t mean we should ignore it. With its impressive production spanning 230 days, the show boasts a magnificent scale, similar to “Game of Thrones.” Its world-building is commendable, but with numerous interconnected storylines, viewers may feel overwhelmed and disoriented amidst the grandeur. (Much like navigating the complexities of the board game “Catan.”)
Rodat and Emmerich play executive producer roles in this project, undoubtedly possessing enough influence to attract Academy Award-winning actor Anthony Hopkins. Hopkins’ involvement adds star power to the intricate production. However, his character takes a back seat among the large ensemble cast in a show that is audacious yet brash at times, and admittedly overindulgent. Yet, it offers an unprecedented level of opulence and fantasy within the realm of soap operas.
In simpler terms, “Those About to Die” offers an abundance of surprising plot developments, engaging character journeys, and a visual feast filled with music and special effects to keep you hooked. It’s a visually stunning experience that can be overwhelming at times. This isn’t your typical viewing, but it’s worth the investment for fans of epic stories like “Independence Day.” Just be prepared to familiarize yourself with many characters before fully enjoying the 10-episode series.
Blink and You Miss Him: Ode to Anthony Hopkins
Let’s discuss Anthony Hopkins’ compelling portrayal as Emperor Vespasian. Aware that his time is numbered, he faces the challenge of selecting a worthy successor between his two sons. The brothers, Titus Flavanius (Tom Hughes) and Domitian (Jojo Macari), display striking differences. Titus is serious and steadfast, while Domitian is reckless, smarmy, and seeks counsel from his male companion. This intriguing familial relationship sets the stage for an engaging narrative. As the story progresses, Hopkins’ masterful performance leaves a lasting impression, particularly when he is momentarily absent.
Simultaneously, let’s delve into the other intriguing aspects. Rome has enjoyed tranquility for a while, but beneath the facade, there’s an explosive convergence of sports, politics, and dynasties at work. Criminals, gamblers, and manipulators lurk around every corner, including Tenax (Iwan Rheon), a power-hungry crime boss whose machinations eventually unravel, leaving him with more than he can handle. Scorpus (Dimitri Leonidas), a successful if cunning charioteer, and Viggo (Johannes Johannesson), a strong Norse gladiator, form part of this intricate web, befriending the distressed Kwame (Moe Hashim) during their gladiator training.
Kwame stands out among the characters with his distinct personality, and his tale brings about a dire situation that Cala (Sara Martins) urgently needs to address – Cala’s three kids, including Kwame, Aura (Kyshan Wilson), and Jula (Alicia Edogamhe), were all forced into separation, with Jula and Aura being sold into slavery. Prepare yourself for a captivating narrative as the creators skillfully portray this troubled family’s struggles. Keep an eye out for other significant elements in the storyline.
All Factions of Ancient Rome Represented
The Corsi brothers – Pepe Barroso, Eneko Sargadoy, and Goncalo Almeida – give impressive performances as three Spanish siblings who travel to Rome to sell horses essential for chariot racing. Swiftly immersed in the racing scene, they are mentored by Tenax. On the other hand, the Roman aristocracy, referred to as The Patricians, comprise influential families owning the four major horse and chariot racing factions. They wield power and exhibit ruthless behavior; Antonia (Gabriella Pession) and her husband Marsus (Rupert Penry-Jones) are notable among them.
Functioning Pieces:: The banter between Titus and JoJo as brothers really resonated with us, even though we’ve seen similar sibling disputes numerous times before, and the outcome was predictable in the end. Among the characters, Kwame, Tenax, Cala, Viggo, and particularly Viggo stood out. The Corsi brothers were impactful but didn’t captivate our interest as much. Hopkins, with his exceptional acting skills, is a noteworthy presence in the series, even if his scenes as Emperor Vespasian are limited in number.
A Big Spectacle of Gladiators
As a passionate gamer immersed in the world of Ancient Rome, I’m utterly captivated by the stunning backdrop of this game. Costume designer Gianni Casalnuovo has outdone himself in bringing each character’s class to life with authenticity and flair. The production designers, Johannes Muecke and Laura Pozzaglio, have left no stone unturned in creating an immersive experience. Every detail, from the grandeur of the palaces to the worn-out tents in the camp, speaks volumes.
In his notable collaboration with Roland Emmerich, Robert Rodat penned “The Patriot,” featuring Mel Gibson in a leading role. Rodat’s approach shares similarities with grand use of extras, extended takes, and expansive sets. The visuals are rich and captivating, allowing the actors to fully immerse themselves in their characters. However, it is the thrilling gladiatorial contests that truly capture our attention and leave us eagerly anticipating “Gladiator II.”
Some might dismiss Those About to Die due to an excess of characters and intricate details. However, this production is captivating in spite of that. It includes a significant amount of gore: dismembered limbs, charred bodies, stabbings, and more. The realism with which these scenes are portrayed is particularly noteworthy given the time frame. The chase and fighting sequences are notably impressive. Well done. Although it could benefit from a few more prominent characters to anchor the storyline, Emmerich and team have created an impressive undertaking that merits our attention.
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2024-07-18 23:33