Those About To Die Season 1 Review : An epic exploration of power and ambition in ancient Rome

Story: Set in ancient Rome's glory days, this drama centers on the violent gladiator games and chariot races, against the backdrop of the rivalry between Emperor Vespasian's sons, Titus and Domitian.

Review: ‘Those About to Die’ is an impressive spectacle that spares no effort in achieving grandeur. The series benefits from an intriguing plot that keeps you hooked with its portrayal of Rome's high and mighty. Based on the same book that inspired Ridley Scott’s ‘Gladiator,’ this drama offers credible performances, a vast canvas, and stunning art direction. Though the roughly ten-hour runtime could have been trimmed to eight episodes, the engrossing storyline makes it easy to overlook any distractions. The series provides a vivid glimpse of what Rome might have been like around 79 AD.

The series is set in a decadent Rome, where many citizens have turned hedonistic. Emperor Vespasian (Anthony Hopkins), now old and nearing the end of his life, must choose his heir between his sons, Titus (Tom Hughes) and Domitian (Jojo Macari). When Titus is declared the next emperor, Domitian sees it as a defeat. This era also features Romans flocking to specially constructed arenas for violent gladiatorial fights and chariot races, centered at Circus Maximus. Tenax (Iwan Rheon), a shrewd businessman, manages Circus Maximus and dreams of starting his own chariot racing faction with Scorpus (Dimitri Leonidas), the best charioteer in the Roman empire. Their ambitions clash with other patricians who own rival factions. Running parallel is the story of Cala (Sara Martins), an African woman who comes to Rome to free her enslaved daughters and son.

‘Those About to Die’ presents a realistic portrayal of Rome, closely matching historical depictions from books. It elevates the depiction of ancient Rome beyond what we've seen in previous series and films. The series often feels like a commercial film, offering something for everyone. The gladiator and chariot race scenes are impeccably filmed, bringing these ancient events to life vividly. The series also explores themes of power, corruption, adultery, and pathos. Overall, it sets a new standard for historical dramas.

Anthony Hopkins delivers a powerful performance as Emperor Vespasian, exuding authority, power, and intimidation. Jojo Macari shines as Vespasian’s son, a cunning politician willing to do anything to become his father's favourite. Tom Hughes, known for his role in ‘Game of Thrones,’ appears as Vespasian’s second son, Titus, and brings an intimidating presence to the screen. However, it’s Iwan Rheon as Tenax who steals the spotlight. Rheon portrays an extremely ambitious man who controls the city’s gambling operations and is determined to create a new faction, delivering a fantastic performance. Sara Martins also leaves a mark as Cala, a Numidian woman who travels to Rome to free her enslaved daughters and son.

Directed by Roland Emmerich, known for films like ‘The Day After Tomorrow,’ ‘Godzilla,’ and ‘Independence Day,’ this series delves into power dynamics at their finest. Emmerich brings his signature style of special effects-driven action to the narrative. While the scale of this series is epic, it does have some flaws. The screenplay and script follow a familiar pattern seen in similar series, making it feel clichéd at times. It avoids doing anything revolutionary, which is a shame because it excels in most other areas. Despite these minor hiccups, the grandeur of the series ensures you stay invested for roughly ten hours. The stunning visuals of The Flavian Amphitheatre, Numidia, Ostia Harbour, and the House of Titus and other Roman landmarks are mesmerizing. Treat this series as a commercial flick, and you will be amply rewarded.