Why 'Those About to Die' is the Must-See Prequel for Gladiator 2 Fans?
Following a tumultuous inaugural episode in which director Roland Emmerich struggles to manage his numerous plotlines and budget constraints, Peacock’s original series “Those About to Die” gradually finds its footing. The series presents a gritty, violent, and often risqué interpretation of swords-and-sandals storytelling. Emmerich, known for films such as “The Day After Tomorrow” and “2012,” immerses himself in a genre poised for revitalization with the upcoming “Gladiator 2,” directed by Ridley Scott. While “Those About to Die” may occasionally resemble a diluted television adaptation of that anticipated film—despite a reported budget exceeding $140 million—it remains sufficiently engaging for enthusiasts of violent historical dramas, serving as a substantial precursor to the forthcoming cinematic feast. The timing of the show, which centers on spectacle masking political intrigue during an election year summer, feels particularly relevant. The promotional materials for “Those ...