Summary
TheThose About to Dietrailer reveals a closer look at the Anthony Hopkins-led swords and sandals show. The upcoming Peacock series is based on the 1958 Daniel P. Mannix book of the same name, which was also the inspiration for Ridley Scott’sGladiatorand theupcomingGladiator 2. Directors Roland Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner helmed the 10-episode first season of the show, which features an ensemble cast that includes Hopkins, Dimitri Leonidas, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Moe Hashim, and Tom Hughes.
Peacockhas now shared the official trailer forThose About to Die. Check it out below:
The trailer reveals brewing tensions in Rome as Hopkins' Emperor Vespasian stirs his citizens to defend the Roman way of life. Said way of life is depicted in many ways throughout the rest of the trailer, both good and bad, in scenes that showcase chariot races, the mistreatment of the poor, and political backstabbing. Human interpersonal drama is interspersed with moments set on a much grander scale,revealing the epic storytelling style of the new show.
Those About To Die Is A Return To Form For Anthony Hopkins
The Actor Is Best Known For Playing Complicated And Powerful Characters
The lavishThose About to Die, which is the reasonwhyGladiator 2didn’t film in Rome, provides Anthony Hopkins with a particularly complicated character. While Emperor Vespasian was powerful thanks to his position in Rome, his reign came at the end of a particularly strange period in Rome’s history known as the Year of the Four Emperors. It was a period of turmoil, rebellion, and death that saw Emperors Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian rule in quick succession, whichlikely means that his character constantly feels like his reign is under threat.
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The combination of power and internal tension is one that Hopkins has proven his ability to master. Throughout his career, he has played characters with various proportions of both elements, including Odin in theThorsubfranchise of the Marvel Cinematic Universe andhis iconic character Hannibal Lecter fromThe Silence of the Lambs. However, in recent years, the actor has played characters who are either less internally conflicted or entirely lack power, including his Oscar-winning role inThe Father.
Anthony Hopkins reprised the role of Hannibal Lecter inHannibalandRed Dragon.
Those About to Dieallows Hopkins to showcase a return to form by bringing Vespasian to life. By turning recent roles such asRebel Moon’s Jimmy the Robot on their head, the decorated actor has proven his ability to continue showcasing his range well into his 80s. It remains to be seen if the show continues into further seasons, but if it does and his character survives, it could continue to showcase this for several years to come.
