Hello, tech-savvy teens and savvy adults alike! Are you prepared for an adventurous ride back to the era of the powerful Roman Empire? If the answer is yes, then buckle up for “Those About To Die.” This thrilling TV series is not just about battles in the arena. It’s also about the politics and power-play that was the essence of ancient Rome.
‘A Power Packed Punch of Gladiatorial Combat’
Think of renowned epics like Spartacus, Cleopatra, and Ben-Hur. Now, mix them with a glimpse into the life-or-death gladiatorial combats of Rome. You have the recipe of the series “Those About To Die.” In this series, Roland Emmerich, a a top-tier filmmaker, takes you on a journey to different parts of ancient Rome.
‘Characters as Diverse as the Empire Itself’
The show seems different because it has characters from various backgrounds. Anthony Hopkins, a renowned actor, plays the role of Emperor Vespasian, the father of two competitive sons. Titus, the elder, and sly Domitian, the younger, are always trying to get the upper hand. Their power struggles form a major chunk of the series.
Onto the major spectacle – the gladiators and chariot races. They are what Roman Empire’s entertainment was all about. You will meet Tenax, the manager of a chariot team, played by Iwan Rheon, famous for his role in Game of Thrones. To spice things up, Moe Hashim acts as Kwame, a captured warrior forced to be a slave.
‘Where Does the Show Fall Short?’
This series is ambitious, but it’s not perfect. Although you’ll meet a lot of characters, it’s hard to feel connected to them all. With numerous characters to track, forming an emotional bond can be a challenge. Actors like Iwan Rheon and Sara Martins-Court do their best, but the series doesn’t quite hit the mark.
Certain elements also seem to make up for the lack of an engaging storyline. There’s too much nudity and the special effects don’t impress. These elements, though plenty, fail to conceal the slight mediocrity of the series.
‘A Toned-Down Show of the Famous Roman Era’
Creating a drama series set in ancient Rome is an ambitious task. The show is grand in scope but might struggle budget-wise. Most scenes are shot in back alleys or places that overlook grand Roman architecture. Watching it, you might feel a bit let down if you were expecting a visual feast reflective of the period.
‘Highlights Amid Lows’
Despite the flaws, the series has its merits. The complex characters keep you hooked, while the explicit action scenes remain engaging. But, the repetitive plot pattern and less than impressive execution might cause waning interests across its ten-episode length.
In conclusion, “Those About To Die” attempts to rekindle the flame of the grand Roman Empire on television, but falls short in certain respects. It’s a valiant effort that doesn’t fully deliver on its grand promise. The series launches on Peacock on July 18th. Be sure to catch a glimpse and form your own opinion. After all, every series is a gem to someone!
So, what do you find most appealing about period dramas? Do they charm you with a nostalgic throwback or do you find them monotonous TV staples? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more details, visit Project Casting Blog on https://www.projectcasting.com/blog/news/diving-into-the-roman-era-a-review-of-those-about-to-die-series/