Peacock’s new epic series, Those About to Die, sets its sights on becoming the next Game of Thrones, promising a blend of gladiatorial combat, political intrigue, and familial strife reminiscent of ancient Rome. Despite its ambitions, the series, debuting on July 18, delivers a mix of spectacle and familiarity that falls short of its lofty inspirations.
Based loosely on Daniel P. Mannix’s 1958 book and heavily influenced by George R.R. Martin’s storytelling style, showrunners Robert Rodat and director Roland Emmerich craft a tale set in 79 CE Rome. At its center is Tenax (Iwan Rheon), a shrewd tavern owner profiting from Rome’s insatiable appetite for gladiatorial games and chariot races at the Circus Maximus. With Emperor Vespasian (Anthony Hopkins) nearing the end of his reign, political maneuvering intensifies as contenders like General Titus (Tom Hughes) and politician Domitian (Jojo Macari) vie for power amid growing unrest.
The narrative weaves through multiple threads, from Tenax’s ambitious schemes to Senator Marsus (Gabriella Pession) and his wife Antonia (Gabriella Pession) plotting against Vespasian. Meanwhile, in Numidia, Aura (Kyshan Wilson) and Jula (Alicia Ann Edogamhe) face slavery until their brother Kwame earns fame as a gladiator. These storylines intersect amidst betrayals, alliances, and the backdrop of Rome’s monumental changes.
Those About to Die delivers on its promise of spectacle with brutal arena clashes and political machinations akin to Westeros. However, its execution often feels derivative, lacking the finesse and originality of its predecessors. Directorial efforts by Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner provide visceral action sequences, yet the series falters with inconsistent CGI and occasional narrative predictability.
Despite its shortcomings, standout performances by Rheon and Macari anchor the series with their characters’ ruthless ambition and cunning. The series’ exploration of power dynamics and survival in ancient Rome resonates, though it occasionally succumbs to formulaic resolutions and superficial character developments.
In conclusion, Those About to Die offers a glimpse into the cutthroat world of ancient Rome, filled with intrigue and bloodshed. While it may not reach the heights of its inspirations, viewers seeking epic drama and visceral action will find moments to appreciate in this ambitious Peacock production.
