Perched on the imperial throne in first-century Rome, Emperor Vespasian had a grand vision to entertain the masses. He planned to build an arena for gladiatorial combat and wild beast executions, attracting crowds with the spoils of war—men and animals alike—compelled to fight to the death for amusement. Starring film legend Anthony Hopkins, Those About to Die vividly brings this blood-soaked era to life.
We are transported back two millennia, where social unrest simmers beneath lavish palaces and the populace craves violence above all else. Not everyone is in favor of the Emperor's scheme, though; the city's elite already dominate the profitable sports arena. At the forefront of these influential figures is Tenax, a cunning commoner portrayed by Iwan Rheon who climbed to the pinnacle of Rome's gambling scene. Yet, Tenax has even greater ambitions, putting him at odds with those upholding the traditional ways. Amidst this backdrop of ambition and turmoil, personal tales of hardship and survival unfold. A mother's quest to reunite her enslaved family. A warrior thrust into the arena after being captured in battle. Even the royal sons clash as they compete for supremacy upon their father's imminent passing.
All are caught up in the political upheaval and moral decay that marked the decline of the Empire. Presented on a grand scale with cinematic visuals, Those About to Die offers an immersive glimpse into this ancient world and the individuals who navigated its treacherous waters. The blood of the empire courses through various storylines in Those About to Die. Foremost among them are the power struggles within Rome's royal family as the Flavian dynasty's authority is put to the test. Emperor Vespasian rules with an iron grip in his tenth year as Caesar, yet age is catching up with him. His sons Domitian and Titus each believe they are the rightful heir to the throne, fueling a rivalry that threatens to fracture the nation. Vespasian aims to unite his people and secure his legacy, along with that of Rome.
He commences the most ambitious construction project of the era - the Flavian Amphitheater, known today as the Colosseum. This impressive structure poses a challenge to the corrupt authority of Rome's sports elite, particularly to the ambitious Tenax, a former gambling lord who has climbed his way up from poverty. Tenax oversees the famous chariot races of Circus Maximus, captivating the masses.
Tenax aspires to establish his own racing faction, but such a move would upset many. He unexpectedly finds an ally in Domitian, yet he faces opposition from other aristocrats. As the amphitheater takes shape, a power struggle unfolds involving palace intrigues, criminal organizations, and the intense competition that spills sweat and blood. Tenax's narrative serves as the gritty core of the series - a man striving for more in a world of violence and deceit. Amidst the imperial family and power struggles, personal battles for survival unfold. When the fierce African warrior Kwame is captured and enslaved by Rome, he is thrust into the gladiatorial arena for the entertainment of the crowd. With a sole desire to reunite with his sisters, Kwame must confront death in combat while honing his skills. His mother, Cala, is determined to rescue her children at any cost, embarking on a perilous journey that leads her into risky alliances.
From the opulent palaces to the sandy arenas, "Those About to Die" delivers drama, mystery, and heart-pounding action. It aims to provide thrilling genre elements while portraying a broad picture of a corrupt society sustained by violent spectacles. Only by examining all facets can one comprehend the tumultuous world of late Flavian Rome. Although the ancient Roman world is vividly depicted, its inhabitants often come across as superficial. Tenax, portrayed skillfully by Iwan Rheon, emerges as a multifaceted character. His ambition and ruthless tactics paint him as a villain, yet Rheon ensures that you remain engrossed in his tale. Subtle nuances in his portrayal suggest a lingering humanity beneath the harsh exterior. Similarly, Cala transcends mere one-dimensionality. Continue Reading At:
