283 reviews
Pretty solid body of work!
The show's attention to detail in set design and costumes immerses viewers in the era, making the brutal and often heart-wrenching scenes even more impactful. Plunges viewers into the gritty and intense world of ancient Rome. The performances are top-notch, with the cast delivering powerful portrayals that bring the historical figures to life. The narrative is gripping, filled with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. Overall, "Those About To Die" is a show you should watch for fans of historical dramas and action-packed storytelling. It offers a raw and unflinching look at the lives of those who fought for survival and glory, leaving a lasting long impression on its viewers.
- andre-wadsworth
- Oct 1, 2024
- Permalink
Starts a little slow but gets better and better
Those About to Die started a little slow but got better with each episode. I just found out about this show just a few days ago. I can't believe Peacock didn't promote this more considering how much it cost to make. Peacock never promotes any of their original shows very well but if they were to ever do it this is the one. I need to start off by saying that I love this genre so I may be a little biased, shows like Spartacus, Rome, Game of Thrones, etc and movies like Gladiator, Troy, etc are among my favorite shows/movies of all-time. While this isn't close to as good as those shows I just mentioned it's still worth watching if you're a fan of this genre. It's not exactly historically accurate but who cares, just enjoy it for the entertaining show it is. When an episode ended I couldn't wait for the next one and that's exactly what you want from a show.
- Supermanfan-13
- Oct 2, 2024
- Permalink
It's not bad at all
A very aggressive advertisement campaign were held in my city for this show, the ads, the posters were everywhere, and since I love the genre, I was pretty hyped.
The show did not particularly disappoint. I was suprised and a bit disheartened to see the negative reviews it had before starting to watch it.
I think it starts off very promising, but as the show develops, it fails to escape mediocrity. Surely, you can't expect the quality and the depth that comes with shows like game of thrones. There is a lot missing. Some questionable chocies were made, and some low effort events exist in the plot. But I'm a huge fan of Roman Empire content, I still loved it very much, despite I don't usually enjoy low quality TV. And that's probably among the best things that this show does, they were able to capture the essence of the era pretty well. They risked ruining this with horrible CGI in a few scenes though, it had to be better.
The show did not particularly disappoint. I was suprised and a bit disheartened to see the negative reviews it had before starting to watch it.
I think it starts off very promising, but as the show develops, it fails to escape mediocrity. Surely, you can't expect the quality and the depth that comes with shows like game of thrones. There is a lot missing. Some questionable chocies were made, and some low effort events exist in the plot. But I'm a huge fan of Roman Empire content, I still loved it very much, despite I don't usually enjoy low quality TV. And that's probably among the best things that this show does, they were able to capture the essence of the era pretty well. They risked ruining this with horrible CGI in a few scenes though, it had to be better.
- TheWhiteWolf07
- Oct 5, 2024
- Permalink
Duracell Bunnies with whips
Those About to Die reminds me very much of a BBC historical drama wrapped up with a 2010s Prince of Persia style Hollywood movie.
Some of the acting and dialogue is a tad painful to watch and the CGI is very ropey. The scenery itself is quite stunning, but, as a soon and chariots start racing, the often used panning out shot has the riders looking like Duracell Bunnies with whips.
The giant white lion, although impressive in size, is again underwhelming in it's overall appearance.
I did enjoy parts of the story but in general was left frustrated and irritated by alot of the character interaction.
A series with a lower first season budget like Vikings did alot better of a job drawing the audience into a historical timeline. Whilst adding drama, humour and excitement.
Not bad but could have been alot better.
Some of the acting and dialogue is a tad painful to watch and the CGI is very ropey. The scenery itself is quite stunning, but, as a soon and chariots start racing, the often used panning out shot has the riders looking like Duracell Bunnies with whips.
The giant white lion, although impressive in size, is again underwhelming in it's overall appearance.
I did enjoy parts of the story but in general was left frustrated and irritated by alot of the character interaction.
A series with a lower first season budget like Vikings did alot better of a job drawing the audience into a historical timeline. Whilst adding drama, humour and excitement.
Not bad but could have been alot better.
- marcusclaytor
- Jul 22, 2024
- Permalink
Are you not entertained?
This recreation of Ancient Rome shows that although the Romans could hold a horserace on steroids, and put on a show that makes "WrestleMania" look like kids playing in a pre-school sand pit, a decent lighting grid was beyond them. This thing is so dark; half of it seems in silhouette. There were a couple of episodes where I wasn't sure who was doing what to whom.
Accurate I suppose, but other shows about the ancients have got around it without us wondering how they received a visit from Thomas Edison. My favourite sword and sandals series HBO's "Rome" didn't seem that dark. Admittedly it makes the brightness of the chariot racing and arena scenes stand out.
Director Roland Emmerich said he was inspired to make the series after reading Daniel P. Mannix's history of the games. I read that book years ago; it was a pretty sensational read detailing the happenings in the arena and the Circus Maximus over many centuries. The filmmakers couldn't follow that format or it would have ended up a docu-drama like The History Channel's tedious "Coliseum". Instead they borrowed the format of HBO's "Rome" where we dive into a specific time. "Those About To Die" takes place around 80 AD and features the reign of Emperor Vespasian and his sons Titus and Domitian. The series depicts the lives of the elites contrasted against Ancient Rome's great unwashed.
Anthony Hopkins as Vespasian joins those esteemed British actors deep into their careers that have donned the imperial purple to play Rome's greatest emperors on the cusp of divinity; he gives the series a lift.
Despite the mood lighting, the series has strong stories and a literate script. Although eight episodes would have tightened it, and we get far too much of Scorpus the charioteer, the series becomes compelling, gripping even, as we head towards the end.
We cut between the intrigues of the royal court in the marble-floored palaces and the story of Numidian Cala (Sara Martens) down in the mean alleyways of Rome attempting to rescue her daughters from slavery and her son from the arena. Through her changing relationship with Tenax (Iwon Rheon), an ancient version of crime boss and big-time bookie, we are taken behind the scenes of the chariot racing, and later the sick fun of the Roman Games.
I think the CGI is used well. The recreation of the Circus Max and the Coliseum are impressive, and don't worry too much about the sex scenes, most of them are so gloomy they seem like they were shot in a disused train tunnel.
Roland Emmerich and the filmmakers did what author Daniel P. Mannix did in the book; where the ancient texts didn't deliver enough gasps, they took a somewhat sadistic guess.
Like HBO's "Rome" this series gives an idea of the life of the ancient Romans, living in an empire that through movies and television seems more like an alternate universe than ancient history.
Accurate I suppose, but other shows about the ancients have got around it without us wondering how they received a visit from Thomas Edison. My favourite sword and sandals series HBO's "Rome" didn't seem that dark. Admittedly it makes the brightness of the chariot racing and arena scenes stand out.
Director Roland Emmerich said he was inspired to make the series after reading Daniel P. Mannix's history of the games. I read that book years ago; it was a pretty sensational read detailing the happenings in the arena and the Circus Maximus over many centuries. The filmmakers couldn't follow that format or it would have ended up a docu-drama like The History Channel's tedious "Coliseum". Instead they borrowed the format of HBO's "Rome" where we dive into a specific time. "Those About To Die" takes place around 80 AD and features the reign of Emperor Vespasian and his sons Titus and Domitian. The series depicts the lives of the elites contrasted against Ancient Rome's great unwashed.
Anthony Hopkins as Vespasian joins those esteemed British actors deep into their careers that have donned the imperial purple to play Rome's greatest emperors on the cusp of divinity; he gives the series a lift.
Despite the mood lighting, the series has strong stories and a literate script. Although eight episodes would have tightened it, and we get far too much of Scorpus the charioteer, the series becomes compelling, gripping even, as we head towards the end.
We cut between the intrigues of the royal court in the marble-floored palaces and the story of Numidian Cala (Sara Martens) down in the mean alleyways of Rome attempting to rescue her daughters from slavery and her son from the arena. Through her changing relationship with Tenax (Iwon Rheon), an ancient version of crime boss and big-time bookie, we are taken behind the scenes of the chariot racing, and later the sick fun of the Roman Games.
I think the CGI is used well. The recreation of the Circus Max and the Coliseum are impressive, and don't worry too much about the sex scenes, most of them are so gloomy they seem like they were shot in a disused train tunnel.
Roland Emmerich and the filmmakers did what author Daniel P. Mannix did in the book; where the ancient texts didn't deliver enough gasps, they took a somewhat sadistic guess.
Like HBO's "Rome" this series gives an idea of the life of the ancient Romans, living in an empire that through movies and television seems more like an alternate universe than ancient history.
Salute
A wonderful tale of ambition, betrayal, immodesty and corruption set in the last gasps of Vespasian's reign. There are those who will undoubtedly question the historical accuracy (at least the great Anthony Hopkins was spared the ignominy of pebble-dashing the tiles), but Rome truly was this awful. Like Victorian England, power, pleasure, and avarice are rarely conducted in polite settings. Wonderfully scripted, beautifully choreographed, and faultlessly executed. Can you last remember when children were cast in an adult drama and delivered so believably? On the strength of season one, this must be a shoo-in for a raft of nominations for next year. Can't wait for Season Two. Are we not entertained?
C'mon People; this was pretty good.
Alright; many of the reviews are correct. The CGI was ordinary, just let it go. The acting is pretty good, the perspective highly entertaining. The plot quite original and engrossing. Do not quite understand the hate on this one. Gladiator; it ain't. Actually liked the plot more than Spartacus.
Oddly enough, Hopkins is somewhat out of place, probably got paid a packet by being there, pretty flat showing by him in all honesty. Not familiar with the rest of the cast, the characterisation of Vespasian's two sons was great, they pulled it off beautifully. Iwan Rheon was cast well, as Tenax I was unsure whether to love him or hate him. Give it a go folks. It's far from the worst thing you'll ever invest your time in.
Oddly enough, Hopkins is somewhat out of place, probably got paid a packet by being there, pretty flat showing by him in all honesty. Not familiar with the rest of the cast, the characterisation of Vespasian's two sons was great, they pulled it off beautifully. Iwan Rheon was cast well, as Tenax I was unsure whether to love him or hate him. Give it a go folks. It's far from the worst thing you'll ever invest your time in.
- anthdalton-60084
- Jul 27, 2024
- Permalink
Those about to die reviewed by @Fahaddays
Those About to Die" offers an immersive journey into the world of Ancient Rome as depicted in the epic TV series. This comprehensive guide delves deep into the gladiatorial arena, exploring the show's historical backdrop, intricate character dynamics, and stunning production details. From Emperor Vespasian's political machinations to the brutal spectacles of the Colosseum!
I have watched the series & enjoyed how Tenax& cala story goes from work relation to love!
I have enjoyed how they showed gladiator fights & how the games was made in rome!
Everyone is cool Thanks for peacock tv , cast and crew.
Author fahad m aldosari @Fahaddays @thoseabouttodie on InsTagram.
I have watched the series & enjoyed how Tenax& cala story goes from work relation to love!
I have enjoyed how they showed gladiator fights & how the games was made in rome!
Everyone is cool Thanks for peacock tv , cast and crew.
Author fahad m aldosari @Fahaddays @thoseabouttodie on InsTagram.
- fahaddayskuwait
- Sep 23, 2024
- Permalink
good but needs to be better at everything if there is going to be a season 2
It is far from being a masterpiece . But it is definitely entertaining and some episodes even show glimpses of something that could be great but it does need some work . (Vespasian) played by Anthony Hopkins was a good idea, but i feel like they did not really use his him in the right way needed a lot more screen-time . Jo Jo Mocari did a great job with portraying (Domitian) he in my opinion delivered the best performance on the show, his acting was super he really tried to bring his character to live.
Iwan Rheon (Tenax) also did a great job, his character being the criminal who had a bad child-hood. He played his role perfect at times i felt sorry for him and he seemed like a good guy who needs to do bad things . But then he does things that makes you question him . Exactly what his character is supposed to do .
Sarah martin (Cala) she is a good actress and she also did here best with the character she played but at times it is confusing because here French accent kind of takes away from who she is playing . Nevertheless still a good effort by here it is mainly here accent that takes away from here performance .
Moe Hashin (kwame) was great to watch his bond with the Gladiator from the north was great, both really fulfilled their part on the show.
If there is going to be a season 2 they should spend more time building the characters and diving into the backgrounds and storylines . Because the storylines were all over the place, a lot of unnecessary love story's that are not finished or come out of the blue and then seem rushed .so overall the show lacked episodes storylines seem not finishend and rushed to fit into 10 episodes and not explored enough.
Iwan Rheon (Tenax) also did a great job, his character being the criminal who had a bad child-hood. He played his role perfect at times i felt sorry for him and he seemed like a good guy who needs to do bad things . But then he does things that makes you question him . Exactly what his character is supposed to do .
Sarah martin (Cala) she is a good actress and she also did here best with the character she played but at times it is confusing because here French accent kind of takes away from who she is playing . Nevertheless still a good effort by here it is mainly here accent that takes away from here performance .
Moe Hashin (kwame) was great to watch his bond with the Gladiator from the north was great, both really fulfilled their part on the show.
If there is going to be a season 2 they should spend more time building the characters and diving into the backgrounds and storylines . Because the storylines were all over the place, a lot of unnecessary love story's that are not finished or come out of the blue and then seem rushed .so overall the show lacked episodes storylines seem not finishend and rushed to fit into 10 episodes and not explored enough.
- moviehigh81
- Jul 19, 2024
- Permalink
It's not great but it's something
Frequently shoddy editing coupled with some truly atrocious script writing but the show is held together by some strong performances. It's an epic show and a fantastic, flamboyant insight into the workings of ancient Rome.
However, it's easy to look by the abrupt cuts and grade school story telling and enjoy it for what does deliver - abundant CGI and a curious plot.
Sure, it has Sir Anthony Hopkins but this is a phoned in performance only secured by, I suspect, a large cheque. The real character highlights are delivered elsewhere, from General Titus played by Tom Hughes, the cunning and ambitious Tanax played by Iwan Rheon, and the plebs and slaves found scurrying underneath the great city of Rome.
However, it's easy to look by the abrupt cuts and grade school story telling and enjoy it for what does deliver - abundant CGI and a curious plot.
Sure, it has Sir Anthony Hopkins but this is a phoned in performance only secured by, I suspect, a large cheque. The real character highlights are delivered elsewhere, from General Titus played by Tom Hughes, the cunning and ambitious Tanax played by Iwan Rheon, and the plebs and slaves found scurrying underneath the great city of Rome.
Best show
Honestly i don't understand why this show isn't rated higher, it has everything from action to betrayal, politics, love and so on without it being too much. I really hope there will be a season 2, i highly recommend watching it it's worth it.
The characters are well worked, I would have liked to learn more about tenacity because even if we see him often on the screen he is a character who deserves that we are interested in him just like Cala, we know nothing about his past in the end or why she is so strong. I hope that we will learn more about these two in a future season if there is one, but I hope.
The characters are well worked, I would have liked to learn more about tenacity because even if we see him often on the screen he is a character who deserves that we are interested in him just like Cala, we know nothing about his past in the end or why she is so strong. I hope that we will learn more about these two in a future season if there is one, but I hope.
I'm confused by the Cala character.
- sasha-44909
- Jul 31, 2024
- Permalink
Miss by a mile
Already the trailer gave some weird vibes but still decided to give it a chance. Two episodes in and the level of fakeness is just through the roof. It's like they kept the first take on every scene. Overacting and unconvincing characters all over the place. Even the extras seem fake. There are some unintentionally funny scenes where extras are pretending to do everyday stuff in the background.
The indoor scenes seem overly produced. Trying to get a dramatic look they overlit everything so it looks completely unnatural. The CGI is pretty embarassing for 2024 and it doesn't look like they lacked the budget.
This makes Spartacus Blood and Sand look like Shakespearean theater. I felt second hand embarassment for Anthony Hopkins. He just doesn't belong here.
The indoor scenes seem overly produced. Trying to get a dramatic look they overlit everything so it looks completely unnatural. The CGI is pretty embarassing for 2024 and it doesn't look like they lacked the budget.
This makes Spartacus Blood and Sand look like Shakespearean theater. I felt second hand embarassment for Anthony Hopkins. He just doesn't belong here.
- eggshell-2
- Jul 18, 2024
- Permalink
It's surprisingly good
In this series almost everything is excellent, with the exception of some moments that can spoil the impression, but may not do so. The main advantage of the project in the tension, which is constantly increasing and does not give to take your eyes off the screen. Competently written conflicts between characters, what they want and what they get at the end, together with interesting and colorful characters, create an unforgettable atmosphere and strongly immerse in what is happening on the screen. All this is accompanied by very high quality scenery, without which the immersion would be worse.
I will note a couple more details that give charm to the series. The first is the main character. He is the engine of the plot, he himself sets the vector of its development. All the ups and downs of the protagonist is a matter of his own hands and whatever consequences did not occur, he will always find a way to turn the result in his favor.
Hence the problem of the series, namely the resolution of these conflicts. The scriptwriters did not always reach and some of the solutions to the conflicts look very strained and implausible (within the series) from which the tension suffers.
The second is how some decisions and actions affect others, and this influence can be after a few episodes, and maybe more. The result of actions taken by the protagonist is not always obvious and not always immediately reflected in the future. This shows the competent use of Chekhov's guns.
I will note a couple more details that give charm to the series. The first is the main character. He is the engine of the plot, he himself sets the vector of its development. All the ups and downs of the protagonist is a matter of his own hands and whatever consequences did not occur, he will always find a way to turn the result in his favor.
Hence the problem of the series, namely the resolution of these conflicts. The scriptwriters did not always reach and some of the solutions to the conflicts look very strained and implausible (within the series) from which the tension suffers.
The second is how some decisions and actions affect others, and this influence can be after a few episodes, and maybe more. The result of actions taken by the protagonist is not always obvious and not always immediately reflected in the future. This shows the competent use of Chekhov's guns.
Sumptuous Show
There's a lot of hard work gone into this show at every level & it's rather surprising that some other reviewers don't really appreciate what it takes to bring something like this to the screen.
It really can't be that easy to recreate Rome like this & they've done a pretty good job of it in my view. British actors doing a fine job (as they did with the Rome TV series) and making this a great watch.
Things have moved on tremendously since they struggled with CHI in Gladiator. This TV show looks most excellent in HD.
Ignore the so so reviews & dive into street life in Ancient Rome. Great stuff - I'm loving this show!
It really can't be that easy to recreate Rome like this & they've done a pretty good job of it in my view. British actors doing a fine job (as they did with the Rome TV series) and making this a great watch.
Things have moved on tremendously since they struggled with CHI in Gladiator. This TV show looks most excellent in HD.
Ignore the so so reviews & dive into street life in Ancient Rome. Great stuff - I'm loving this show!
- harrythehotdog
- Oct 1, 2024
- Permalink
Andalusian horses
There was no Andalusia during Vespasian times, so there were no Andalusian horses. I do not understand how a production of this size did not have some Historian advising . The region was known as Betica; yes, horses from Hispania were required, but not "Andalusian." Something that is very noticeable are the digital images of the city and its buildings. There must be some way to make them look more real. Not everything can be generated artificially. How strange that they haven't noticed it. I watch this because of the Anthony Hopkins scenes; he is a superb actor, and elevates the le el of the series.
- hectorhoraciootero-1
- Jul 18, 2024
- Permalink
Game of Throne -y but less complicated
Well, I don't know what to tell you, maybe it was just the fact they Iwan Rheon played (one of) the protagonist(s) but this all reminded me a lot of Game of Thrones -- and frankly, I enjoyed it a lot. Apart from some unnecessary deaths and romance plots that had me surprised, devastated, and confused, Those About To Die is a really good watch. I love love love the subtle narration at the beginning and the end and I would have loved some more throughout the episodes but I'll take what I can get here honestly. I really appreciated how the last two, and especially the finale, pulled together so many strings and left a clear cut plan as a set up for the next season. I really hope we'll get one and I'm very much looking forward to it.
- suse-04098
- Sep 13, 2024
- Permalink
Not perfect, but it's fine.
"Those About to Die," created by Robert Rodat and directed by Roland Emmerich, is a soap opera set in ancient Rome that blends sports, mafia, politics, and family drama.
The plot follows Emperor Vespasian (Anthony Hopkins) as he tries to stabilize Rome. His sons, Titus (Tom Hughes) and Domitian (Jojo Macari), are embroiled in a rivalry that adds to the tension. Alongside the imperial family, characters from the plebeian underworld, like Tenax (Iwan Rheon), a hustler with big ambitions, and Kwame (Moe Hashim), a Numidian slave turned gladiator, add depth to the narrative.
The series struggles with an inconsistent tone, wavering between serious historical drama and quasi-satirical theatrical play. This inconsistency can be jarring, making the story feel a bit messy despite its decent plot. The characters are well-developed with clear motivations, but the chaotic presentation often detracts from their stories.
Visually, the series is impressive, though some CGI elements are noticeable. The depiction of Rome is visually stunning, with sprawling cityscapes and grand arenas. The action scenes, including gladiator battles and chariot races, are well-choreographed and explicitly violent, capturing the brutality of the era.
However, the show can feel repetitive, with many scenes reiterating the same themes and conflicts. The various narrative threads do converge nicely towards the end, providing a satisfying payoff. Despite its flaws, the series offers an entertaining look at ancient Rome's decadence and intrigue.
Overall, "Those About to Die" is an ambitious project that, while not perfect, is enjoyable for those who appreciate historical dramas with a mix of action and political intrigue. I watched it over a week and found it generally entertaining. I'd give it 7 stars.
The plot follows Emperor Vespasian (Anthony Hopkins) as he tries to stabilize Rome. His sons, Titus (Tom Hughes) and Domitian (Jojo Macari), are embroiled in a rivalry that adds to the tension. Alongside the imperial family, characters from the plebeian underworld, like Tenax (Iwan Rheon), a hustler with big ambitions, and Kwame (Moe Hashim), a Numidian slave turned gladiator, add depth to the narrative.
The series struggles with an inconsistent tone, wavering between serious historical drama and quasi-satirical theatrical play. This inconsistency can be jarring, making the story feel a bit messy despite its decent plot. The characters are well-developed with clear motivations, but the chaotic presentation often detracts from their stories.
Visually, the series is impressive, though some CGI elements are noticeable. The depiction of Rome is visually stunning, with sprawling cityscapes and grand arenas. The action scenes, including gladiator battles and chariot races, are well-choreographed and explicitly violent, capturing the brutality of the era.
However, the show can feel repetitive, with many scenes reiterating the same themes and conflicts. The various narrative threads do converge nicely towards the end, providing a satisfying payoff. Despite its flaws, the series offers an entertaining look at ancient Rome's decadence and intrigue.
Overall, "Those About to Die" is an ambitious project that, while not perfect, is enjoyable for those who appreciate historical dramas with a mix of action and political intrigue. I watched it over a week and found it generally entertaining. I'd give it 7 stars.
- ruidanielbarrossss
- Jul 23, 2024
- Permalink
Perfect example of the mediocre of the 20's
The script was written for people who are not just watching but looking at their phones or doing something else at the same time. The story is flowing in a tunnel where the tunnel is getting narrower with every event and action where nothing can be missed or misunderstood. A few marvelous performances makes it watchable but the simplicity of the storyline and dullness of the story makes it hard to watch it without concentrating on something else. It is like Rome is not a city but a 3 floored mansion where everyone in it can be at the right place at the right time constantly even without knowing it. Sad day for storytelling.
- demokan-atasoy
- Jul 21, 2024
- Permalink
I'm def the target audience for shows like this and I enjoyed it.
When I first saw the trailer for Those About to Die I knew this show was for me. I'm definitely the target audience when they approve shows like this and I have to say even though it probably could've been a little better, I still really liked it. While I don't think it will win any awards but I promise you that at the very least you'll have a good time watching this. If you have a problem with violence or nudity then you should pass because this show has a plenty of both. The show takes place during the height of the Roman Empire as it explores the dark side of the city while also providing plenty of political drama too. I binged through this series as fast as I could (there's not a bad episode) and I pray they renew this for at least another season because there were still a lot of stories unresolved.
Not as good as it probably should have been
Really Not Very Good
This review is based on episode one only and hopefully, for anyone prepared to perceiver, it'll get better but, it was hard enough to get through the first episode and I'm tapping out.
It was sheas going to be compared to the series of Spartacus but, despite the lower budget, lower tier actors and CGI from years ago, Spartacus is so so much better, in every respect.
Any of the single bad things on their own wouldn't make this bad, it's just that when you lump them all in together, the end result is terrible.
The acting is wooden, the cgi is bad by today's standards and it's noticeable and grating, the dialogue is uninspiring and the whole thing felt a bit Daytime TV and cheap.
The main actors are reputable, great even, so the blame has to lie with the script/director/producer.
By the end of the first episode, I didn't care about any of the characters, didn't care about the story and felt I'd wasted 45 minutes.
There was no life or excitement, no drama and in all honesty, there's no excuse for bad production like this.
It was sheas going to be compared to the series of Spartacus but, despite the lower budget, lower tier actors and CGI from years ago, Spartacus is so so much better, in every respect.
Any of the single bad things on their own wouldn't make this bad, it's just that when you lump them all in together, the end result is terrible.
The acting is wooden, the cgi is bad by today's standards and it's noticeable and grating, the dialogue is uninspiring and the whole thing felt a bit Daytime TV and cheap.
The main actors are reputable, great even, so the blame has to lie with the script/director/producer.
By the end of the first episode, I didn't care about any of the characters, didn't care about the story and felt I'd wasted 45 minutes.
There was no life or excitement, no drama and in all honesty, there's no excuse for bad production like this.
Can I have those ten hours back please
I watched all of it in hope it would somehow get better.
But nope.
Filled with dreadful characters - not one of them is endearing or sympathetic. There is no charisma or anything remotely relatable.
On a big TV the FX like the races is not very good. You see the cgi stuff mixed with an actor standing on a platform, jiggling reins and yelling "Hah!" Or some such thing. It gets silly.
I'm a huge history buff and especially like ancient and medieval history so this should have been my cup of tea. I really tried to like it. Like I said I watched all ten episodes.
I am trying hard to find something positive. I can't. I did like the main male lead. But in the end he is just awful like all the rest of the characters. I simply find myself wondering what Roland Emmerich was thinking. He's made some great movies and TV. He failed miserably here.
I suppose some of the sets were okay. The problem is that this is so abysmal that it overwhelms anything visually interesting.
There's a lot of disturbing and bloody violence. I don't think of it as gratuitous but some of it is pretty over the top.
But nope.
Filled with dreadful characters - not one of them is endearing or sympathetic. There is no charisma or anything remotely relatable.
On a big TV the FX like the races is not very good. You see the cgi stuff mixed with an actor standing on a platform, jiggling reins and yelling "Hah!" Or some such thing. It gets silly.
I'm a huge history buff and especially like ancient and medieval history so this should have been my cup of tea. I really tried to like it. Like I said I watched all ten episodes.
I am trying hard to find something positive. I can't. I did like the main male lead. But in the end he is just awful like all the rest of the characters. I simply find myself wondering what Roland Emmerich was thinking. He's made some great movies and TV. He failed miserably here.
I suppose some of the sets were okay. The problem is that this is so abysmal that it overwhelms anything visually interesting.
There's a lot of disturbing and bloody violence. I don't think of it as gratuitous but some of it is pretty over the top.
I watched all 10 episodes
Yes, the CGI is a bit amateurish in spots. Yes, there's some bad acting. Yes, the writing isn't great.
Here's where I'm supposed to say "but..." and recommend this. I can't do that. The series is very predicable, down to who we know is going to die and who will miraculously escape their fate. Compared to HBO's "Rome," it's a poor cousin.
So much effort and expense to produce an OK diversion. Can't see a Season 2 getting the green light. For all the length available from ten 50+-minute episodes, you get the feeling of rushing through the story. There isn't the kind of character development one expects from a mini-series.
Here's where I'm supposed to say "but..." and recommend this. I can't do that. The series is very predicable, down to who we know is going to die and who will miraculously escape their fate. Compared to HBO's "Rome," it's a poor cousin.
So much effort and expense to produce an OK diversion. Can't see a Season 2 getting the green light. For all the length available from ten 50+-minute episodes, you get the feeling of rushing through the story. There isn't the kind of character development one expects from a mini-series.
- markstenroos
- Jul 20, 2024
- Permalink
Worth a watch
Despite the epic scenes, some of the CGI comes across as just a bit clunky. Clunky is also a good description for some of the acting, and I'm rather surprised to see Anthony Hopkins headlining this sword and sandals tale. I've seen him in so many other, better movies, and far better supported. I also found the rather narrow focus on the games and the arena rather limiting, bearing in mind all the other highly significant events which were taking place during Vespasian's time. If you want a rather undemanding watch, with some unconvincing characterisation and a wandering plot , you won't be disappointed, but don't expect it to come up to the standard of the many quality offerings about ancient Roman history which are out there. Distinctly average.
- michaeldmccarthy-73481
- Jul 18, 2024
- Permalink