By Romey Norton July 17, 2024

Welcome to the chaos and carnage of the Roman Empire. Hollywood legend Anthony Hopkins stars as Emperor Vespasian during the height of the Roman Empire, in the epic sword-and-scandal series Those About to Die. Written by Robert Rodat, based on Daniel P. Mannix’s nonfiction classic of the same name, the intense series explores the corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition.
Synopsis
The centre of the Roman Empire is the wealthiest city in the world, and there is a heavy influx of slave laborers from the growing empire to take over the work. The Roman population—bored, restless, and increasingly violent—is kept in line mainly by two things: free food and spectacular entertainment, in the form of chariot racing and gladiator fights. Those About to Die delves into the world of the games—a world characterised by bloodlust, greed for money, the pursuit of power, and corruption.
Review
SPOILER ALERT
Those About to Die boasts a strong cast, making Hopkins the selling point, when he only plays a small part and it’s the rest of the cast who make the series. The ensemble cast includes Iwan Rheon (Game of Thrones), Sara Martins (Death in Paradise), Tom Hughes (Victoria), Jojo Macari (Masters of the Air), and more. They all play characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.
The bloody and dramatic opening credit sequence mirrors similar openings to other worldwide success series such as Game of Thrones, but with a less memorable tune to hum. In the first five minutes we’re introduced to Iwan Rheon, as Tenax, whose seemingly cold-hearted character is intriguing and compels you watch.

Across the ten episodes viewers are immersed in the complex and corrupt world of chariot racing and gladiatorial fights. The CGI isn’t overwhelming, or overused, and is believable enough to transport you back in time. Some CGI lacks quality, and appears cheap, but that is easily forgiven because the racing is so exhilarating and the well choreographed fight sequences are bloody and brutal. My heart was pounding from the intensity and pressure of these scenes, and there are plenty of them.
Rheon is the lead actor, as Hopkins' character is killed off very early on. Rheon’s character is both hard and soft, making him easily likable with a healthy fear that he could betray at any point. JoJo Macari is menacing, sniveling and mean, and his convincing acting will send shivers down your spine. Mo Hashim gives a compelling performance as Kwame; the humble warrior you’re rooting for from start to finish. And Sarah Martins stands out amongst the strong female cast as the powerful, determined mother trying to keep her family safe through cunning, clever and cut-throat plans. The characters' development is well-devised, and each character gets enough screen time for audiences to invest in and not become confused (too many plots/characters can spoil a series).

The plot is strong, with many subplots to help drive the series along, all leading to an impressive final episode which will have audiences begging for a second season. The plot makes some brave and bold choices, which similar series lack - especially when it comes to character deaths.
This spectacular series will become your Roman Empire. Those About to Die is an exhilarating watch, and will be your next binge series. With everyone eager for Gladiator II, this intense, entertaining series will satisfy your hunger for fighting, chariot racing, sex and drama.
Star Rating

Those About to Die releases on Prime Video July 19
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