Those who know who Roland Emmerich is will probably know that the director is known for his epic films, a lot of which are also major disaster films. Some of these major titles include Universal Soldier (1992), Stargate (1994), Independence Day (1996) and its sequel Independence Day: Resurgence (2016), Godzilla (1998), The Patriot (2000), The Day After Tomorrow (2004), 10,000 BC (2008), 2012 (2009), White House Down (2013), Midway (2019), and Moonfall (2022). But, Emmerich is now shifting to television, as his new project is about to be released on Peacock this summer. Ahead of the premiere, a teaser trailer has been released.
The project in question is the epic sword-and-sandal series Those About to Die, which is set in Ancient Rome. The series will be based on the book of the same name by writer and journalist Daniel P. Mannix; interesting enough, the same book served as the basis for Ridley Scott’s epic classic, Gladiator.
The series will star acting legend...
The project in question is the epic sword-and-sandal series Those About to Die, which is set in Ancient Rome. The series will be based on the book of the same name by writer and journalist Daniel P. Mannix; interesting enough, the same book served as the basis for Ridley Scott’s epic classic, Gladiator.
The series will star acting legend...
- 4/8/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
NBCUniversal’s streaming service Peacock revealed the teaser for Those About to Die during WWE WrestleMania Xl and announced a July 18 premiere date. Roland Emmerich directs the series and serves as executive producer.
Those About to Die stars two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins alongside a cast that includes Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, and Moe Hashim.
Those About to Die is an epic drama set in the corrupt world of the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told — the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most…blood and sport.
The series introduces an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.
All ten episodes of Those About to Die launch July 18, just in time for viewers to also watch the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Those About to Die stars two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins alongside a cast that includes Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, and Moe Hashim.
Those About to Die is an epic drama set in the corrupt world of the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told — the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most…blood and sport.
The series introduces an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.
All ten episodes of Those About to Die launch July 18, just in time for viewers to also watch the 2024 Paris Olympics.
- 4/8/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
2024 is shaping up to be an embarrassment of riches for Roman history buffs, with projects as varied as Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator 2” and Francis Ford Coppola’s Rome-inspired sci-fi epic “Megalopolis” expected to hit theaters later this year. The era will also be well-represented on television thanks to Roland Emmerich’s upcoming Peacock series “Those About to Die.”
The 10-episode series, which stars Anthony Hopkins as Roman Emperor Vespasian, is set in the world of gladiatorial combat. Adapted from Daniel P. Mannix’s nonfiction book of the same name, the show was developed by Robert Rodat and directed by Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner. In addition to Hopkins, the ensemble cast includes Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, and Moe Hashim.
“I have always been fascinated by the history of the Roman Empire,” Emmerich said in a statement announcing the series. “So much still seems relevant for our...
The 10-episode series, which stars Anthony Hopkins as Roman Emperor Vespasian, is set in the world of gladiatorial combat. Adapted from Daniel P. Mannix’s nonfiction book of the same name, the show was developed by Robert Rodat and directed by Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner. In addition to Hopkins, the ensemble cast includes Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, and Moe Hashim.
“I have always been fascinated by the history of the Roman Empire,” Emmerich said in a statement announcing the series. “So much still seems relevant for our...
- 4/7/2024
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
Peacock has set the premiere date and released the first trailer for gladiator epic Those About To Die, starring Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins. All ten episodes of the series will drop Thursday, July 18 on the streamer.
Written by Robert Rodat, based on Daniel P. Mannix’s nonfiction classic of the same name, the series stars Hopkins as Emperor Vaspasian during the height of the Roman Empire. The epic drama is set in the corrupt world of the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told — the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most…blood and sport. The series introduces an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.
The ensemble cast also includes Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson, Rupert Penry-Jones,...
Written by Robert Rodat, based on Daniel P. Mannix’s nonfiction classic of the same name, the series stars Hopkins as Emperor Vaspasian during the height of the Roman Empire. The epic drama is set in the corrupt world of the spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition, exploring a side of ancient Rome never before told — the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most…blood and sport. The series introduces an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who collide at the explosive intersection of sports, politics, and dynasties.
The ensemble cast also includes Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson, Rupert Penry-Jones,...
- 4/7/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
During Sunday’s WrestleMania Xl, Peacock gave us a sneak peek at some gladiators from a different era.
The streamer released a new teaser for Those About to Die, the ancient Roman epic starring Anthony Hopkins, and announced a release date as well: The historical drama will premiere Thursday, July 18, with all 10 episodes hitting the streamer at once. (The teaser aired during Sunday’s WrestleMania Xl broadcast as well.)
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The streamer released a new teaser for Those About to Die, the ancient Roman epic starring Anthony Hopkins, and announced a release date as well: The historical drama will premiere Thursday, July 18, with all 10 episodes hitting the streamer at once. (The teaser aired during Sunday’s WrestleMania Xl broadcast as well.)
More from TVLineWWE WrestleMania Xl 2024: How to Stream the Big Event OnlineThe Mandalorian & Grogu Movie Sets Release Date in a Year Far, Far AwayDead Boy Detectives Are on the...
- 4/7/2024
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
Steven Spielberg, the man behind the masterclass Saving Private Ryan, has given us many opportunities to cherish. And just like us, Christopher Nolan, one of the greatest filmmakers of our generation, has also reserved his admiration for Spielberg.
Steven Spielberg at the 2023 TIME100 Summit. Credit: Screengrab/Time/YouTube
Nolan also made one WWII drama Dunkirk, which has garnered much appreciation from fans and critics alike. However, before filming Dunkirk, Christopher Nolan once revealed that he reached out to Steven Spielberg for advice as he was successful in making Saving Private Ryan.
Suggested“One of the most brilliant science fiction films I’ve ever seen”: Steven Spielberg was Blown Away by the Artistic Prowess of this Masterpiece
And, Spielberg also shared some advice with Nolan, one of the visionary directors of our time. Dunkirk grossed $527 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing World War II film, until it was surpassed by...
Steven Spielberg at the 2023 TIME100 Summit. Credit: Screengrab/Time/YouTube
Nolan also made one WWII drama Dunkirk, which has garnered much appreciation from fans and critics alike. However, before filming Dunkirk, Christopher Nolan once revealed that he reached out to Steven Spielberg for advice as he was successful in making Saving Private Ryan.
Suggested“One of the most brilliant science fiction films I’ve ever seen”: Steven Spielberg was Blown Away by the Artistic Prowess of this Masterpiece
And, Spielberg also shared some advice with Nolan, one of the visionary directors of our time. Dunkirk grossed $527 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing World War II film, until it was surpassed by...
- 3/28/2024
- by Prantik Prabal Roy
- FandomWire
We finally got a Halo live-action series, and while fans have mixed feelings about the series, no one can deny the brilliant action and cast in the Paramount+ series. Halo the series is set in the 26th century and will be centered on the Master Chief, the world’s deadliest weapon and their greatest hope in the war with the Covenant (an alien race). While protecting a rebel group from the Covenant on planet Madrigal, Master Chief saves Kwan and also touches an object that seems to unlock his buried memories, and also makes him want to protect Kwan, even if it means going against him the orders given to him by the Unsc. Halo is currently in its second season and if you love the new batch of episodes and want some more similar sci-fi adventure then you might want to check out the shows listed below.
Raised By Wolves...
Raised By Wolves...
- 2/18/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Today is Veteran’s Day, and to mark the occasion we’re doing to dip into the true story that inspired one of the greatest war movies ever made. Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan is commonly referred to as one of the most effective war movies ever made. Released in July 1998, Private Ryan was quickly lauded for its brutal depiction of life in combat, with most people singling out its stunning, harrowing recreation of the invasion of Omaha Beach on June 6th, 1944. The film went on gross a surprising $481 million worldwide and won five Oscars, including Best Director for Spielberg, who dedicated the movie to his father, a World War II vet. While the film of course took many a page from the history books to tell its gripping tale, the overall story – about a platoon of soldiers dispatched to recover a young private after three of his brothers...
- 11/11/2023
- by Eric Walkuski
- JoBlo.com
(Welcome to Tales from the Box Office, our column that examines box office miracles, disasters, and everything in between, as well as what we can learn from them.)
Released in 2011, "Thor" was a key part of proving that the Marvel Cinematic Universe could work conceptually. Without the rights to characters like Spider-Man or the X-Men, Marvel Studios needed to prove that heroes that had less clout with the general public could still lead successful cinematic adventures. Thanks in no small part to Chris Hemsworth's very likable portrayal of the God of Thunder, the film was a rare success for the fantasy genre (albeit disguised as a superhero film), earning $449 million globally. Thor would then go on to become a big part of 2012's "The Avengers," which was an even bigger, record-breaking success.
By that point, the MCU had more than proven its concept. These disparate franchises that existed in...
Released in 2011, "Thor" was a key part of proving that the Marvel Cinematic Universe could work conceptually. Without the rights to characters like Spider-Man or the X-Men, Marvel Studios needed to prove that heroes that had less clout with the general public could still lead successful cinematic adventures. Thanks in no small part to Chris Hemsworth's very likable portrayal of the God of Thunder, the film was a rare success for the fantasy genre (albeit disguised as a superhero film), earning $449 million globally. Thor would then go on to become a big part of 2012's "The Avengers," which was an even bigger, record-breaking success.
By that point, the MCU had more than proven its concept. These disparate franchises that existed in...
- 11/4/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Exclusive: Roland Emmerich is heading to next month’s Mipcom Cannes to present first-look footage from upcoming Gladiator epic Those About to Die.
AGC Studios and High End Productions will host an invite-only presentation on the first afternoon of the mid-October market, showcasing the footage along with a Q&a with the Godzilla auteur.
The $150M Anthony Hopkins-starring series will launch on Peacock in the U.S. later next year but AGC boss Stuart Ford recently told Deadline the producers eschewed a “worldwide streamer type deal” when putting together the financial package. Prime Video has bought the show in a wealth of European nations and the free TV rights outside the exclusive distribution window are still being negotiated with various licensees across Europe, according to Constantin Film in August. Principal photography is nearly complete at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios and the show, which falls outside of SAG-AFTRA strike restrictions,...
AGC Studios and High End Productions will host an invite-only presentation on the first afternoon of the mid-October market, showcasing the footage along with a Q&a with the Godzilla auteur.
The $150M Anthony Hopkins-starring series will launch on Peacock in the U.S. later next year but AGC boss Stuart Ford recently told Deadline the producers eschewed a “worldwide streamer type deal” when putting together the financial package. Prime Video has bought the show in a wealth of European nations and the free TV rights outside the exclusive distribution window are still being negotiated with various licensees across Europe, according to Constantin Film in August. Principal photography is nearly complete at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios and the show, which falls outside of SAG-AFTRA strike restrictions,...
- 9/28/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Prime has given Roland Emmerich’s Those About To Die the thumbs up, taking rights to the upcoming gladiator action series across most of Europe. Anthony Hopkins stars as Roman emperor Vespasian in the 10-part series, inspired by the nonfiction book of the same name by Daniel P. Mannix.
Amazon picked up exclusive rights to Those About To Die for its services in the five largest territories in Europe (Germany, the UK, France, Italy and Spain) as well as in Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg, and Belgium. Amazon will have exclusive rights for the show in those territories, with free-tv rights negotiated separately. Servus TV has secured the free TV window for Austria for the show, which will go out on Peacock in the U.S.. NBCUniversal’s streaming platform gave a straight-to-series order for the show.
Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan...
Amazon picked up exclusive rights to Those About To Die for its services in the five largest territories in Europe (Germany, the UK, France, Italy and Spain) as well as in Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg, and Belgium. Amazon will have exclusive rights for the show in those territories, with free-tv rights negotiated separately. Servus TV has secured the free TV window for Austria for the show, which will go out on Peacock in the U.S.. NBCUniversal’s streaming platform gave a straight-to-series order for the show.
Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan...
- 8/2/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Roland Emmerich’s upcoming gladiator series Those About to Die has been picked up by Prime Video across Europe.
High End Productions, a Jv forged by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film, struck the deal for the show produced by Centropolis, Hollywood Gang and Street Entertainment.
When it becomes available on Prime in Europe, the show will become a rare example of a Peacock series that can be watched on a different streamer in other territories. Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg, and Belgium have all picked up the rights. The free TV rights outside the exclusive distribution window on Prime Video are currently still being negotiated with various licensees across Europe, according to Constantin Film.
The Peacock original stars Anthony Hopkins as Emperor Vaspasian during the height of the Roman Empire. The Roman population—bored, restless, and increasingly...
High End Productions, a Jv forged by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film, struck the deal for the show produced by Centropolis, Hollywood Gang and Street Entertainment.
When it becomes available on Prime in Europe, the show will become a rare example of a Peacock series that can be watched on a different streamer in other territories. Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg, and Belgium have all picked up the rights. The free TV rights outside the exclusive distribution window on Prime Video are currently still being negotiated with various licensees across Europe, according to Constantin Film.
The Peacock original stars Anthony Hopkins as Emperor Vaspasian during the height of the Roman Empire. The Roman population—bored, restless, and increasingly...
- 8/2/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Prime Video has acquired the Ancient Rome gladiator drama series “Those About to Die” in multiple European territories. The show is directed by “Independence Day” helmer Roland Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner.
The 10-episode first season will debut exclusively on Prime Video in Germany, the U.K., France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg and Belgium. As previously reported, streaming platform Peacock has secured the U.S. rights.
European rights are being handled by High End Productions, the joint venture set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film. AGC Studios holds rights for the rest of the world.
Servus TV has taken the free TV window for Austria. The free TV rights outside the exclusive distribution window on Prime Video are still being negotiated with various licensees across Europe. Further presales will be announced at a later date.
The show stars Anthony Hopkins as Emperor Vespasian,...
The 10-episode first season will debut exclusively on Prime Video in Germany, the U.K., France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg and Belgium. As previously reported, streaming platform Peacock has secured the U.S. rights.
European rights are being handled by High End Productions, the joint venture set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film. AGC Studios holds rights for the rest of the world.
Servus TV has taken the free TV window for Austria. The free TV rights outside the exclusive distribution window on Prime Video are still being negotiated with various licensees across Europe. Further presales will be announced at a later date.
The show stars Anthony Hopkins as Emperor Vespasian,...
- 8/2/2023
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
One of the most celebrated movies of 1998 was “Saving Private Ryan,” starring Tom Hanks, Jeremy Davies and Matt Damon. Written by Robert Rodat and directed by Steven Spielberg, the war film tells of a group of U.S. soldiers who are ordered to retrieve a man whose three brothers have all been killed in action. Released 25 years ago on July 24, 1998, “Saving Private Ryan” was a massive commercial success, making $217 million in the United States and $482 million worldwide. The first team-up of Spielberg and Hanks went on to win five Oscars, though infamously not Best Picture. Read on as Gold Derby celebrates the “Saving Private Ryan” 25th anniversary.
Most critics loved the film, including Kenneth Turan in the Los Angeles Times, who called it “a powerful and impressive milestone in the realistic depiction of combat.” Wendy Ides in Times (UK) said that the opening 24-minute war sequence “is one of the...
Most critics loved the film, including Kenneth Turan in the Los Angeles Times, who called it “a powerful and impressive milestone in the realistic depiction of combat.” Wendy Ides in Times (UK) said that the opening 24-minute war sequence “is one of the...
- 7/29/2023
- by Brian Rowe
- Gold Derby
Do you like movies about gladiators?
Hollywood is betting you do.
There are a trio of sword-and-sandal epics in the works, including a long-awaited sequel to Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning 2000 movie Gladiator and a reboot of Starz’ groundbreaking TV series Spartacus.
The curious surge of Ancient Rome titles in the pipeline seems to be purely coincidental, but it also makes sense given that studios have been searching for the next genre title that might break out — particularly since the end of HBO’s Game of Thrones — and given the revival of another muscular old-time Hollywood genre, the Western, following the explosive popularity of Yellowstone. Each project has roots in a different take on the material, and two of the projects had major casting news within the past week.
The gladiator genre actually has cinema roots dating all the way back to the 1913 silent film The Last Days of Pompeii. The...
Hollywood is betting you do.
There are a trio of sword-and-sandal epics in the works, including a long-awaited sequel to Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning 2000 movie Gladiator and a reboot of Starz’ groundbreaking TV series Spartacus.
The curious surge of Ancient Rome titles in the pipeline seems to be purely coincidental, but it also makes sense given that studios have been searching for the next genre title that might break out — particularly since the end of HBO’s Game of Thrones — and given the revival of another muscular old-time Hollywood genre, the Western, following the explosive popularity of Yellowstone. Each project has roots in a different take on the material, and two of the projects had major casting news within the past week.
The gladiator genre actually has cinema roots dating all the way back to the 1913 silent film The Last Days of Pompeii. The...
- 3/22/2023
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Roland Emmerich’s large-scale gladiator series “Those About to Die,” starring Anthony Hopkins as Emperor Vespasian, has started shooting at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios.
Several new cast members have been announced, including “Game of Thrones” alumn Iwan Rheon.
Rheon, who in “Thrones” played the villainous Ramsay Bolton – and can currently be seen in Emmerich-produced film “The Magic Flute” – will replace Lorenzo Richelmy who has exited the Peacock show due to scheduling conflicts.
Also joining the “Those About to Die” cast are Liraz Charhi (“Tehran”) who will play Berenice, Queen of the conquered Judeans; and Rupert Penry-Jones (“The Batman”) as retired general Marsus who aspires to succeed Vespasian on the imperial throne (they are pictured above).
Other new cast additions to the swords and sandals series shot at Cinecittà are Johannes Haukur Johannesson (“Vikings”) as Norse gladiator Viggo; Eneko Sagardoy (“Elite”) as talented chariot driver Andria; Pepe Barroso (“45 rpm”) as Fonsoa...
Several new cast members have been announced, including “Game of Thrones” alumn Iwan Rheon.
Rheon, who in “Thrones” played the villainous Ramsay Bolton – and can currently be seen in Emmerich-produced film “The Magic Flute” – will replace Lorenzo Richelmy who has exited the Peacock show due to scheduling conflicts.
Also joining the “Those About to Die” cast are Liraz Charhi (“Tehran”) who will play Berenice, Queen of the conquered Judeans; and Rupert Penry-Jones (“The Batman”) as retired general Marsus who aspires to succeed Vespasian on the imperial throne (they are pictured above).
Other new cast additions to the swords and sandals series shot at Cinecittà are Johannes Haukur Johannesson (“Vikings”) as Norse gladiator Viggo; Eneko Sagardoy (“Elite”) as talented chariot driver Andria; Pepe Barroso (“45 rpm”) as Fonsoa...
- 3/21/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Game of Thrones star Iwan Rheon is one of nine joining the cast of Peacock’s epic gladiator drama Those About to Die, as principal photography on the Roland Emmerich show kicked off at Rome’s historic Cinecittà Studios.
Rheon, best known as Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones, has has been cast as ambitious crime boss Tenax and will replace Lorenzo Richelmy, who dropped out over scheduling conflicts. Rheon is appearing in The Magic Flute and has appeared in the BAFTA-winner Misfits and Netflix’s The Dirt.
Related: 2023 Peacock Series & Pilot Orders
Also joining the cast are Liraz Charhi, Johannes Haukur Johannesson, Rupert Penry-Jones, Eneko Sagardoy, Pepe Barroso, Gonçalo Almeida, Kyshan Wilson and Alicia Edogamhe.
Inspired by Daniel Mannix’s nonfiction book, Those About to Die is billed as an epic drama set in the complex and corrupt world of ancient Rome’s spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition. AGC Television is the studio,...
Rheon, best known as Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones, has has been cast as ambitious crime boss Tenax and will replace Lorenzo Richelmy, who dropped out over scheduling conflicts. Rheon is appearing in The Magic Flute and has appeared in the BAFTA-winner Misfits and Netflix’s The Dirt.
Related: 2023 Peacock Series & Pilot Orders
Also joining the cast are Liraz Charhi, Johannes Haukur Johannesson, Rupert Penry-Jones, Eneko Sagardoy, Pepe Barroso, Gonçalo Almeida, Kyshan Wilson and Alicia Edogamhe.
Inspired by Daniel Mannix’s nonfiction book, Those About to Die is billed as an epic drama set in the complex and corrupt world of ancient Rome’s spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition. AGC Television is the studio,...
- 3/20/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
‘Got,’ ‘Vikings’ and ‘Summertime’ Stars Join Roland Emmerich’s Gladiator Series ‘Those About to Die’
Roland Emmerich is filling out his Colosseum, with a new troop of actors to complete the cast of Those About to Die, a gladiator action series which the Independence Day director has begun shooting in Rome.
Game of Thrones star Iwan Rheon, Vikings actor Johannes Haukur Johannesson and Alicia Edogamhe, best-known for Netflix series Summertime, are among the new additions to the ensemble cast, as well as Tehran actress Liraz Charhi, Britain’s Rupert Penry-Jones (Mi-5), Elite actor Eneko Sagardoy, Gonçalo Almeida (Amor Amor), Kyshan Wilson (Viola) and Pepe Barroso (Neill Blomkamp’s upcoming Gran Turismo).
They join two-time Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins headlines the series as Roman emperor Vespasian. Previously-announced cast include Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas, and Moe Hashim.
Rheon has been cast as ambitious crime boss, Tenax. He replaces the previously announced Lorenzo Richelmy, who was unable to participate in the series due to scheduling conflicts.
Game of Thrones star Iwan Rheon, Vikings actor Johannes Haukur Johannesson and Alicia Edogamhe, best-known for Netflix series Summertime, are among the new additions to the ensemble cast, as well as Tehran actress Liraz Charhi, Britain’s Rupert Penry-Jones (Mi-5), Elite actor Eneko Sagardoy, Gonçalo Almeida (Amor Amor), Kyshan Wilson (Viola) and Pepe Barroso (Neill Blomkamp’s upcoming Gran Turismo).
They join two-time Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins headlines the series as Roman emperor Vespasian. Previously-announced cast include Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas, and Moe Hashim.
Rheon has been cast as ambitious crime boss, Tenax. He replaces the previously announced Lorenzo Richelmy, who was unable to participate in the series due to scheduling conflicts.
- 3/20/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Roland Emmerich has given the thumbs up for further cast members of his hotly-anticipated Roman gladiators TV series Those About to Die.
AGC Studios and High End Productions, which are producing Those About To Die for Peacock, announced Thursday that Lorenzo Richelmy, Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas and Moe Hashim will join Oscar-winner Anthony Hopkins in the new swords-and-sandals series, based on the book of the same name by Daniel Mannix.
German director Marco Kreuzpaintner (Sommer Storm, Beat) has also joined Those About To Die and will direct several episodes of the series alongside Emmerich, from scripts written by Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan, The Patriot).
Richelmy, best known for his titular performance in Netflix’s Marco Polo, will play Tenax, an ambitious crime boss working his way up in the complex and corrupt world of ancient Rome, with its spectacle-driven gladiatorial competitions.
AGC Studios and High End Productions, which are producing Those About To Die for Peacock, announced Thursday that Lorenzo Richelmy, Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas and Moe Hashim will join Oscar-winner Anthony Hopkins in the new swords-and-sandals series, based on the book of the same name by Daniel Mannix.
German director Marco Kreuzpaintner (Sommer Storm, Beat) has also joined Those About To Die and will direct several episodes of the series alongside Emmerich, from scripts written by Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan, The Patriot).
Richelmy, best known for his titular performance in Netflix’s Marco Polo, will play Tenax, an ambitious crime boss working his way up in the complex and corrupt world of ancient Rome, with its spectacle-driven gladiatorial competitions.
- 2/9/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Peacock’s upcoming gladiator drama Those About to Die has added seven names to its cast, with Marco Kreuzpaintner (Beat) now signed up as co-director and exec producer.
Lorenzo Richelmy, Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas and Moe Hashim will join Anthony Hopkins in the AGC Television series, which Roland Emmerich (Independence Day) will co-direct with Kreuzpaintner. Robert Rodat is the writer.
The ambitious series, which is inspired by Daniel Mannix’s eponymous nonfiction book, is set in the complex and corrupt world of ancient Rome’s spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition and features an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire.
Oscar winner Hopkins was last month cast as Vespasian, Roman Emperor and head of the Flavian bloodline.
Hughes (The English, Dancing on the Edge) will play Titus Flavianus, the elder son and of Vespasian and apparent heir to the Imperial throne, and Macari (Sex Education,...
Lorenzo Richelmy, Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas and Moe Hashim will join Anthony Hopkins in the AGC Television series, which Roland Emmerich (Independence Day) will co-direct with Kreuzpaintner. Robert Rodat is the writer.
The ambitious series, which is inspired by Daniel Mannix’s eponymous nonfiction book, is set in the complex and corrupt world of ancient Rome’s spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition and features an ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire.
Oscar winner Hopkins was last month cast as Vespasian, Roman Emperor and head of the Flavian bloodline.
Hughes (The English, Dancing on the Edge) will play Titus Flavianus, the elder son and of Vespasian and apparent heir to the Imperial throne, and Macari (Sex Education,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
With the exception of Westworld, Anthony Hopkins hasn’t had a significant television role in quite some time, but that’s all about to change as he’s joined the cast of Those About to Die, a gladiator drama series for Peacock.
Anthony Hopkins will play Emperor Vespasian in Those About to Die. Head of the Flavian bloodline, Vespasian is “battle tested, a rural upstart who claimed his throne after victory in a bloody 10-year civil war. He is aging and is despised by the Patricians jockeying for position in the Empire and looking to supplant his heirs to the throne the first chance they get.” Roland Emmerich (Moonfall) is set to direct the series for Peacock, which has been scripted by Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan). Production will begin at Cinecitta Studios in Rome this March.
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Anthony Hopkins will play Emperor Vespasian in Those About to Die. Head of the Flavian bloodline, Vespasian is “battle tested, a rural upstart who claimed his throne after victory in a bloody 10-year civil war. He is aging and is despised by the Patricians jockeying for position in the Empire and looking to supplant his heirs to the throne the first chance they get.” Roland Emmerich (Moonfall) is set to direct the series for Peacock, which has been scripted by Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan). Production will begin at Cinecitta Studios in Rome this March.
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- 1/19/2023
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Based on the likes of [10,000 BC]() and Anonymous, Roland Emmerich might not be the person you come to for strict historical accuracy in projects. But he's certainly someone you can turn to for epic scale and action. We already knew he was planning Roman gladiator TV series Those About To Die and he's locked in his first cast member: Anthony Hopkins.
The series, which will see Emmerich directing and The Patriot's Robert Rodat writing and executive producing, is an epic drama set in the complex and corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters from all parts of Roman society who collide at the intersection of sports, politics and dynasties of the ancient world. Rodat is taking inspiration from Daniel Mannix's eponymous nonfiction tome.
Hopkins will play Vespasian, the Emperor of Rome and head of the Flavian bloodline. He is battle tested, a...
The series, which will see Emmerich directing and The Patriot's Robert Rodat writing and executive producing, is an epic drama set in the complex and corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters from all parts of Roman society who collide at the intersection of sports, politics and dynasties of the ancient world. Rodat is taking inspiration from Daniel Mannix's eponymous nonfiction tome.
Hopkins will play Vespasian, the Emperor of Rome and head of the Flavian bloodline. He is battle tested, a...
- 1/18/2023
- by James White
- Empire - TV
Anthony Hopkins Joins the Cast of Roland Emmerich's Gladiator Series for Peacock, Those About to Die
Peacock has scored some serious talent for its upcoming gladiator series, For Those About to Die.
Two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins has joined the epic historical series in the pivotal role of Emperor Vespasian, it was announced today by the show’s studio AGC Television via Chairman and CEO Stuart Ford.
Those About to Die is an epic drama set in the complex and corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition.
The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters from all parts of Roman society who collide at the intersection of sports, politics and dynasties of the ancient world.
Hopkins, the first major cast member announced for the project, plays Vespasian, the Emperor of Rome and head of the Flavian bloodline.
He is battle-tested, a rural upstart who claimed his throne after victory in a bloody ten-year civil war.
He is aging and is despised by the Patricians jockeying for...
Two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins has joined the epic historical series in the pivotal role of Emperor Vespasian, it was announced today by the show’s studio AGC Television via Chairman and CEO Stuart Ford.
Those About to Die is an epic drama set in the complex and corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition.
The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters from all parts of Roman society who collide at the intersection of sports, politics and dynasties of the ancient world.
Hopkins, the first major cast member announced for the project, plays Vespasian, the Emperor of Rome and head of the Flavian bloodline.
He is battle-tested, a rural upstart who claimed his throne after victory in a bloody ten-year civil war.
He is aging and is despised by the Patricians jockeying for...
- 1/18/2023
- by Carissa Pavlica
- TVfanatic
Anthony Hopkins has boarded Roland Emmerich’s gladiator series “Those About to Die.” The Oscar winner will play Emperor Vespasian in the Peacock drama, which is being produced by AGC Television and is written by Oscar-nominated “Saving Private Ryan” writer Robert Rodat.
Peacock handed a straight-to-series order for “Those About to Die” last summer. Set in the “complex and corrupt” world of gladiatorial competition, the show follows an ensemble of characters from all parts of Roman society who collide in the arena.
Hopkins is the first major cast member announced for the project. He will play Vespasian, a Roman emperor and rural upstart who claimed his throne after victory in a bloody ten-year civil war. An official synopsis describes the ageing Vespasian as “despised by the Patricians jockeying for position in the Empire and looking to supplant his heirs to the throne the first chance they get.”
In addition to directing,...
Peacock handed a straight-to-series order for “Those About to Die” last summer. Set in the “complex and corrupt” world of gladiatorial competition, the show follows an ensemble of characters from all parts of Roman society who collide in the arena.
Hopkins is the first major cast member announced for the project. He will play Vespasian, a Roman emperor and rural upstart who claimed his throne after victory in a bloody ten-year civil war. An official synopsis describes the ageing Vespasian as “despised by the Patricians jockeying for position in the Empire and looking to supplant his heirs to the throne the first chance they get.”
In addition to directing,...
- 1/18/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Peacock will air series in the US. High End Productions holds European rights, AGC controls remainder of the world.
Anthony Hopkins has joined Roland Emmerich’s gladiator series Those About To Die for AGC Television.
Hopkins, who currently stars in Armageddon Time, will portray what is described as the “pivotal role” of the pivotal role of Emperor Vespasian in the epic drama that will air on Peacock in the US.
Production is scheduled to commence at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios in March. Robert Rodat, whose credits include Saving Private Ryan and The Patriot, wrote the screenplay to the series which takes place in the complex,...
Anthony Hopkins has joined Roland Emmerich’s gladiator series Those About To Die for AGC Television.
Hopkins, who currently stars in Armageddon Time, will portray what is described as the “pivotal role” of the pivotal role of Emperor Vespasian in the epic drama that will air on Peacock in the US.
Production is scheduled to commence at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios in March. Robert Rodat, whose credits include Saving Private Ryan and The Patriot, wrote the screenplay to the series which takes place in the complex,...
- 1/18/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Multiple Academy Award-winner Anthony Hopkins has signed on to star in “Those About to Die,” director Roland Emmerich’s upcoming historical drama about gladiators in the early Roman Empire, the show’s studio, AGC Television, announced Wednesday.
Hopkins, the first major cast member announced for the project, will portray Roman Emperor Vespasian, best known to modern people as the ruler ultimately responsible for the brutal defeat of the Judean revolt of 66-73 C.E., and whose public works projects included the Colosseum of Rome. He reigned from 69-79 C.E., giving us some idea of when the series takes place.
Inspired by the best-selling 1958 book of the same name by Daniel Mannix — which also inspired Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning film “Gladiator” — “Those About to Die” depicts the spectacle, violence and deeply corrupt world of gladiatorial sports during the Roman Empire. Per the official description, “the series introduces an ensemble of...
Hopkins, the first major cast member announced for the project, will portray Roman Emperor Vespasian, best known to modern people as the ruler ultimately responsible for the brutal defeat of the Judean revolt of 66-73 C.E., and whose public works projects included the Colosseum of Rome. He reigned from 69-79 C.E., giving us some idea of when the series takes place.
Inspired by the best-selling 1958 book of the same name by Daniel Mannix — which also inspired Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning film “Gladiator” — “Those About to Die” depicts the spectacle, violence and deeply corrupt world of gladiatorial sports during the Roman Empire. Per the official description, “the series introduces an ensemble of...
- 1/18/2023
- by Joshua Vinson
- The Wrap
Two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins has signed on to star in Those About to Die, the upcoming Roman gladiator series from Independence Day director Roland Emmerich.
Hopkins is the first actor to be cast in Those About to Die, which has been given a straight-to-series order by Comcast-owned NBCUniversal’s streaming platform Peacock. Emmerich, best known for his sci-fi disaster epics, such as Independence Day, will direct and executive produce the series based on Daniel Mannix’s book of the same name.
The show is described as an epic historical drama set within the “complex and corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition” in ancient Rome featuring “an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.”
Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan, The Patriot) is the series showrunner.
Hopkins will play Roman Emperor Vespasian in the show...
Hopkins is the first actor to be cast in Those About to Die, which has been given a straight-to-series order by Comcast-owned NBCUniversal’s streaming platform Peacock. Emmerich, best known for his sci-fi disaster epics, such as Independence Day, will direct and executive produce the series based on Daniel Mannix’s book of the same name.
The show is described as an epic historical drama set within the “complex and corrupt world of spectacle-driven gladiatorial competition” in ancient Rome featuring “an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.”
Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan, The Patriot) is the series showrunner.
Hopkins will play Roman Emperor Vespasian in the show...
- 1/18/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Anthony Hopkins is stepping into the gladiatorial arena with his latest role.
The two-time Oscar winner has joined Those About To Die, the epic period drama from Roland Emmerich for Peacock. Hopkins, who won Oscars for The Father and Silence of the Lambs, will play Emperor Vespasian in the drama, which scored a straight-to-series order last summer.
Production will begin at Cinecitta Studios in Rome in March.
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The series, which is inspired by Daniel Mannix’s eponymous nonfiction book, is a large-scale drama set within the spectacular,...
The two-time Oscar winner has joined Those About To Die, the epic period drama from Roland Emmerich for Peacock. Hopkins, who won Oscars for The Father and Silence of the Lambs, will play Emperor Vespasian in the drama, which scored a straight-to-series order last summer.
Production will begin at Cinecitta Studios in Rome in March.
Related Story Roland Emmerich To Direct Gladiatorial Drama Series ‘Those About To Die’; Peacock Hands Project Straight-To Series Order Related Story 'Poker Face': "Endless Possibilities" For Natasha Lyonne's Human Bs Detector To Keep Solving Crimes Past Season 1 Related Story Jerrod Carmichael's Golden Globes Opening Monologue Takes HFPA To Task For Lack Of Racial Diversity: "I'm Here Because I'm Black"
The series, which is inspired by Daniel Mannix’s eponymous nonfiction book, is a large-scale drama set within the spectacular,...
- 1/18/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Production start lined up for first quarter 2023 at Cinecittà studios in Rome.
Peacock and AGC Television have struck a straight-to-series US deal for Roland Emmerich’s upcoming Ancient Rome gladiatorial epic Those About To Die.
High End Productions, the company set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film to produce premium European fiction series for the international market, has acquired rights in Europe and will co-finance the show with Peacock.
Screen was the first to report in Cannes on an upcoming AGC-Emmerich collaboration and understands the budget is around 140m. A production start is earmarked for the first...
Peacock and AGC Television have struck a straight-to-series US deal for Roland Emmerich’s upcoming Ancient Rome gladiatorial epic Those About To Die.
High End Productions, the company set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film to produce premium European fiction series for the international market, has acquired rights in Europe and will co-finance the show with Peacock.
Screen was the first to report in Cannes on an upcoming AGC-Emmerich collaboration and understands the budget is around 140m. A production start is earmarked for the first...
- 7/27/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Peacock has given a straight-to-series order to a gladiator drama series based on Daniel Mannix’s nonfiction book “Those About to Die.”
Robert Rodat, the screenwriter behind films like “Saving Private Ryan” and “The Patriot,” will write and executive produce. Roland Emmerich is onboard to direct and executive produce. Emmerich is no stranger to large-scale productions of this nature, having previously helmed films like “Independence Day” and “Moonfall.” This will be the first time Emmerich has directed for television.
“Those About to Die” is described as a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex, and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in Ancient Rome. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics, and business intersect and collide.
High End Productions, the company set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film to produce premium European fiction series for the international market,...
Robert Rodat, the screenwriter behind films like “Saving Private Ryan” and “The Patriot,” will write and executive produce. Roland Emmerich is onboard to direct and executive produce. Emmerich is no stranger to large-scale productions of this nature, having previously helmed films like “Independence Day” and “Moonfall.” This will be the first time Emmerich has directed for television.
“Those About to Die” is described as a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex, and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in Ancient Rome. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics, and business intersect and collide.
High End Productions, the company set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film to produce premium European fiction series for the international market,...
- 7/26/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Peacock has handed a straight-to-series order to a gladiator drama directed by Roland Emmerich.
The NBCU streamer has given the order to Those About to Die, inspired by Daniel Mannix’s eponymous nonfiction book.
The series is a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in Ancient Rome. It introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.
2022 Peacock Series & Pilot Orders
The series comes from AGC Television and will be co-financed by Europe’s High End Productions, the company set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film, which has distribution rights in Europe.
Deadline understands that the production budget is around 140M and that further production partners across Latin America, Middle East and Asia are expected to be added before the start of production in Italy in the first quarter...
The NBCU streamer has given the order to Those About to Die, inspired by Daniel Mannix’s eponymous nonfiction book.
The series is a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in Ancient Rome. It introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.
2022 Peacock Series & Pilot Orders
The series comes from AGC Television and will be co-financed by Europe’s High End Productions, the company set up by Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film, which has distribution rights in Europe.
Deadline understands that the production budget is around 140M and that further production partners across Latin America, Middle East and Asia are expected to be added before the start of production in Italy in the first quarter...
- 7/26/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Peacock is breaking into the swords and sandals biz, ordering to series a “large scale” adaptation of Daniel Mannix’s Roman Gladiator historical tome Those About to Die.
A pair of blockbuster EPs will shepherd the project. Stargate overlord Roland Emmerich (whose film work includes Moonfall, Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow) will direct with Falling Skies creator Robert Rodat (whose big-screen work includes Saving Private Ryan and The Patriot) handling writing duties.
More from TVLineVampire Academy Teaser Trailer Offers First Look at Peacock Series AdaptationThey/Them Trailer: Kevin Bacon and Carrie Preston Run a Killer Conversion Camp in Blumhouse...
A pair of blockbuster EPs will shepherd the project. Stargate overlord Roland Emmerich (whose film work includes Moonfall, Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow) will direct with Falling Skies creator Robert Rodat (whose big-screen work includes Saving Private Ryan and The Patriot) handling writing duties.
More from TVLineVampire Academy Teaser Trailer Offers First Look at Peacock Series AdaptationThey/Them Trailer: Kevin Bacon and Carrie Preston Run a Killer Conversion Camp in Blumhouse...
- 7/26/2022
- by Michael Ausiello
- TVLine.com
Peacock has given a straight-to-series order to “Those About to Die,” an ancient Rome gladiator-themed epic from director Roland Emmerich.
Emmerich will also be an executive producer on the project based on the book from author Daniel Mannix. The series is being adapted by Robert Rodat, who will also executive produce.
“Those About to Die” is described by the streamer as “a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in ancient Rome. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.”
Also Read:
Peacock Sets Premiere Dates for ‘Vampire Academy,’ ‘Pitch Perfect’ Spin-off Series ‘Bumper in Berlin’
In his own statement, Emmerich said, “The powerful Roman Empire has always fascinated me, especially its enormous games which entertained the masses through spectacle at the monumental Colosseum. At its heart, this is...
Emmerich will also be an executive producer on the project based on the book from author Daniel Mannix. The series is being adapted by Robert Rodat, who will also executive produce.
“Those About to Die” is described by the streamer as “a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in ancient Rome. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.”
Also Read:
Peacock Sets Premiere Dates for ‘Vampire Academy,’ ‘Pitch Perfect’ Spin-off Series ‘Bumper in Berlin’
In his own statement, Emmerich said, “The powerful Roman Empire has always fascinated me, especially its enormous games which entertained the masses through spectacle at the monumental Colosseum. At its heart, this is...
- 7/26/2022
- by Jolie Lash
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Peacock announced a straight-to-series order Tuesday for a gladiator drama with Independence Day director Roland Emmerich.
Those About To Die is based on author Daniel Mannix’s book of the same title and the show is described as “a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in Ancient Rome. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.”
Emmerich will direct and executive produce, while Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan) is the showrunner.
“The powerful Roman Empire has always fascinated me, especially its enormous games which entertained the masses through spectacle at the monumental Colosseum,” Emmerich says. “At its heart, this is a sports epic led by strong and diverse characters who explore paths to glory, falls from grace and a need to...
Peacock announced a straight-to-series order Tuesday for a gladiator drama with Independence Day director Roland Emmerich.
Those About To Die is based on author Daniel Mannix’s book of the same title and the show is described as “a large-scale drama set within the spectacular, complex and corrupt world of gladiatorial sports in Ancient Rome. The series introduces an ensemble of diverse characters across the many layers of Roman society where sports, politics and business intersect and collide.”
Emmerich will direct and executive produce, while Robert Rodat (Saving Private Ryan) is the showrunner.
“The powerful Roman Empire has always fascinated me, especially its enormous games which entertained the masses through spectacle at the monumental Colosseum,” Emmerich says. “At its heart, this is a sports epic led by strong and diverse characters who explore paths to glory, falls from grace and a need to...
- 7/26/2022
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"Saving Private Ryan" holds a special place in the pantheon of WWII movies. Known for its bloody realism and Janusz Kaminski's Academy Award-winning cinematography inspired by photojournalist Robert Capa's pictures of the D-Day landing, the film shaped the public imagination of the war for generations. Audiences now know it as the quintessential WWII film, but screenwriter Robert Rodat found its inspiration in an entirely different era.
In the movie, three of four brothers in the Ryan family have already perished in action. U.S. Army Chief of Staff George C. Marshall (Harve Presnell) has determined that for the sake of morale, they can't afford...
The post The Original Inspiration Behind Saving Private Ryan Didn't Actually Come From WWII appeared first on /Film.
In the movie, three of four brothers in the Ryan family have already perished in action. U.S. Army Chief of Staff George C. Marshall (Harve Presnell) has determined that for the sake of morale, they can't afford...
The post The Original Inspiration Behind Saving Private Ryan Didn't Actually Come From WWII appeared first on /Film.
- 6/15/2022
- by Leigh Giangreco
- Slash Film
Exclusive: Oscar-nominated Saving Private Ryan screenwriter Robert Rodat is set to write Semper Fi, the true story of Marine Maj. Thomas Schueman and his extraordinary Afghan interpreter Zainulla Zaki.
During fierce fighting in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province, the two men formed an unbreakable brotherhood that transcended the differences in their cultures and ethnicities. After Schueman’s return to the U.S. he tried, with no success, to help Zaki and his family get out of Afghanistan. This summer, as the U.S. pulled out of Afghanistan, Zaki and his family were targeted for execution by the Taliban due to his involvement with U.S. Forces. Schueman’s devotion to his comrade and his struggle to save him, his wife and four children led to a harrowing escape and a daring rescue at Kabul’s airport.
The project is being developed by producers Flashlight Films managing partner Allyn Stewart and veteran movie producer Hawk Koch,...
During fierce fighting in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province, the two men formed an unbreakable brotherhood that transcended the differences in their cultures and ethnicities. After Schueman’s return to the U.S. he tried, with no success, to help Zaki and his family get out of Afghanistan. This summer, as the U.S. pulled out of Afghanistan, Zaki and his family were targeted for execution by the Taliban due to his involvement with U.S. Forces. Schueman’s devotion to his comrade and his struggle to save him, his wife and four children led to a harrowing escape and a daring rescue at Kabul’s airport.
The project is being developed by producers Flashlight Films managing partner Allyn Stewart and veteran movie producer Hawk Koch,...
- 11/3/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The events as they’re presented in Saving Private Ryan would never happen that way. This was my grandfather’s terse review of the Steven Spielberg movie back in 1998. He would know. After serving in the Pacific Theater throughout the war—being there from Pearl Harbor to Saipan, and then Okinawa—he carried a quiet lifelong interest in documentaries about the World War II American experience. And he had little time for Hollywood sentimentality.
“Eight guys for one man during D-Day? Never would’ve happened.”
Indeed, the idea of eight men being potentially squandered during the largest seaborne invasion in history is probably a flight of fancy by Spielberg and screenwriter Robert Rodat. Nevertheless, there is a poignant, mostly heartbreaking truth which informs Saving Private Ryan’s fiction. The context can be absurd at times, with Tom Hanks’ Capt. Miller leading a group of U.S. soldiers behind enemy lines to find one paratrooper,...
“Eight guys for one man during D-Day? Never would’ve happened.”
Indeed, the idea of eight men being potentially squandered during the largest seaborne invasion in history is probably a flight of fancy by Spielberg and screenwriter Robert Rodat. Nevertheless, there is a poignant, mostly heartbreaking truth which informs Saving Private Ryan’s fiction. The context can be absurd at times, with Tom Hanks’ Capt. Miller leading a group of U.S. soldiers behind enemy lines to find one paratrooper,...
- 4/8/2021
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
With a seemingly endless amount of streaming options—not only the titles at our disposal, but services themselves–each week we highlight the noteworthy titles that have recently hit platforms. Check out this week’s selections below and an archive of past round-ups here.
The Command (Thomas Vinterberg)
In the summer of 2000, the Russian submarine named Kursk took on a naval exercise in the Barents Sea, the first of its kind since the fall of the Soviet Union a decade earlier. The Command (released under the title Kursk elsewhere), written by Robert Rodat and directed by Thomas Vinterberg, tells of the sub’s crew, the crew’s families and the government that failed them. Without fully spoiling this real-life event, things do not go well from those onboard the vessel. – Dan M. (full review)
Where to Stream: Netflix
Dolemite Is My Name (Craig Brewer)
The opening scene of Dolemite Is My Name...
The Command (Thomas Vinterberg)
In the summer of 2000, the Russian submarine named Kursk took on a naval exercise in the Barents Sea, the first of its kind since the fall of the Soviet Union a decade earlier. The Command (released under the title Kursk elsewhere), written by Robert Rodat and directed by Thomas Vinterberg, tells of the sub’s crew, the crew’s families and the government that failed them. Without fully spoiling this real-life event, things do not go well from those onboard the vessel. – Dan M. (full review)
Where to Stream: Netflix
Dolemite Is My Name (Craig Brewer)
The opening scene of Dolemite Is My Name...
- 10/25/2019
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
An unbelievable, action-packed true story comes home when The Command arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and Digital August 6 from Lionsgate.
An unbelievable, action-packed true story comes home when The Command arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and Digital August 6 from Lionsgate. The film is currently available On Demand. Starring Matthias Schoenaerts, Léa Seydoux, and Academy Award® winner Colin Firth, don’t miss the riveting story about the 2000 nuclear submarine disaster based on Robert Moore’s book, A Time to Die, directed by award winner Thomas Vinterberg, and written by Robert Rodat. The Command Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD will include the “Human Costs: Making The Command” featurette and will be available for the suggested retail price of $22.99 and $19.98, respectively.
Colin Firth stars in the unforgettable true story of the K-141 Kursk, a Russian flagship nuclear powered submarine that sank to the...
An unbelievable, action-packed true story comes home when The Command arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and Digital August 6 from Lionsgate. The film is currently available On Demand. Starring Matthias Schoenaerts, Léa Seydoux, and Academy Award® winner Colin Firth, don’t miss the riveting story about the 2000 nuclear submarine disaster based on Robert Moore’s book, A Time to Die, directed by award winner Thomas Vinterberg, and written by Robert Rodat. The Command Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD will include the “Human Costs: Making The Command” featurette and will be available for the suggested retail price of $22.99 and $19.98, respectively.
Colin Firth stars in the unforgettable true story of the K-141 Kursk, a Russian flagship nuclear powered submarine that sank to the...
- 7/24/2019
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
As the weekend hits, it’s time to bring back the review round-up in order to cover a few more titles arriving in theaters. Today, we’ll be briefly discussing two particular genre efforts, each of them quite different from the other. The movies in question are the true life drama The Command (formerly known as Kursk on the festival circuit) as well as the anthology horror tale Nightmare Cinema. Both of these flicks offers up something different and may or may not be worth your time. That question is something I’ll attempt to answer right now, so let us dive in! The Command It’s impossible not to currently think about HBO’s miniseries Chernobyl while watching The Command. A high profile Russian tragedy that could have, if not been prevented, then reduced with less bureaucracy and corruption? Yeah, there are parallels. However, while the cable prestige program has drawn raves,...
- 6/22/2019
- by Joey Magidson
- Hollywoodnews.com
In the summer of 2000, the Russian submarine named Kursk took on a naval exercise in the Barents Sea, the first of its kind since the fall of the Soviet Union a decade earlier. The Command (released under the title Kursk elsewhere), written by Robert Rodat and directed by Thomas Vinterberg, tells of the sub’s crew, the crew’s families and the government that failed them. Without fully spoiling this real-life event, things do not go well from those onboard the vessel.
As sub commander Mikhail (Matthias Schoenaerts) and his shipmates celebrate at their fellow soldier Pavel’s (Matthias Schweighöfer) wedding reception, the writing’s on the wall. Post-ussr Russia is floundering, wages are shrinking, and the military is energized only by principle. Speeches about duty and sacrifice underline what’s about to happen. Despite the relative modernity of this story (adapted from Robert Moore’s book A Time to Die...
As sub commander Mikhail (Matthias Schoenaerts) and his shipmates celebrate at their fellow soldier Pavel’s (Matthias Schweighöfer) wedding reception, the writing’s on the wall. Post-ussr Russia is floundering, wages are shrinking, and the military is energized only by principle. Speeches about duty and sacrifice underline what’s about to happen. Despite the relative modernity of this story (adapted from Robert Moore’s book A Time to Die...
- 6/17/2019
- by Dan Mecca
- The Film Stage
The horror of battle is given visceral power in Steven Spielberg’s dazzling fusion of audacity, action and human drama
A present participle in the title usually promises a film with light, ironical flavour: Driving Miss Daisy, Being John Malkovich, Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo. Not here. Screenwriter Robert Rodat imagined this colossal second world war blockbuster with absolute seriousness, loosely inspired by the real-life case of Sgt Frederick Niland, recalled to the Us from the Normandy campaign on emergency compassionate grounds because all his brothers were believed to have been killed in action.
Related: Late Night review – battle of words in the TV writers' room | Peter Bradshaw's film of the week...
A present participle in the title usually promises a film with light, ironical flavour: Driving Miss Daisy, Being John Malkovich, Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo. Not here. Screenwriter Robert Rodat imagined this colossal second world war blockbuster with absolute seriousness, loosely inspired by the real-life case of Sgt Frederick Niland, recalled to the Us from the Normandy campaign on emergency compassionate grounds because all his brothers were believed to have been killed in action.
Related: Late Night review – battle of words in the TV writers' room | Peter Bradshaw's film of the week...
- 6/6/2019
- by Peter Bradshaw
- The Guardian - Film News
For many of us of an impressionable age and frame of mind in the year 2000, the Kursk submarine disaster occupies a uniquely chilling part of the imagination. Even far removed and only getting updates via news reports, the real-time experience of the excruciating 7-day delay between the explosions that sent the Russian nuclear submarine to the bottom of the Barents Sea and the rescue mission divers finally opening its hatch, caught international attention in the same way imperiled space missions used to, or, a decade later, a Chilean mine collapse would.
This is both a blessing and a burden for Thomas Vinterberg’s expensive, glossy recreation of the disaster and its immediate aftermath, “Kursk.” On the one hand, it’s a story everyone knows, and on the other hand, it’s a story everyone knows. How to make it feel new and exciting while being respectful of the real lives...
This is both a blessing and a burden for Thomas Vinterberg’s expensive, glossy recreation of the disaster and its immediate aftermath, “Kursk.” On the one hand, it’s a story everyone knows, and on the other hand, it’s a story everyone knows. How to make it feel new and exciting while being respectful of the real lives...
- 9/13/2018
- by Jessica Kiang
- Variety Film + TV
On paper, this should have been a home run. Adapted from Nicholas Dawidoff’s historical biography of the same name, “The Catcher Was a Spy” is a stiff and serene biopic about a man named Moe Berg, an enigmatic Jew who capped off his middling career with the Boston Red Sox by traveling to Nazi Germany under secret government orders to determine if Hitler was building an atomic bomb, and to assassinate the Nobel Prize-winning scientist in charge of the project if so.
It’s a hell of a war story, combining the foreign intrigue of “The Third Man” with the high-wire suspense of “Where Eagles Dare” (with a touch of homoerotic tension drizzled on top for good measure). Throw in an all-star cast that surrounds Paul Rudd’s lead performance with pinch-hitters like (take a deep breath) Paul Giamatti, Mark Strong, Tom Wilkinson, Hiroyuki Sanada, Sienna Miller, Guy Pearce,...
It’s a hell of a war story, combining the foreign intrigue of “The Third Man” with the high-wire suspense of “Where Eagles Dare” (with a touch of homoerotic tension drizzled on top for good measure). Throw in an all-star cast that surrounds Paul Rudd’s lead performance with pinch-hitters like (take a deep breath) Paul Giamatti, Mark Strong, Tom Wilkinson, Hiroyuki Sanada, Sienna Miller, Guy Pearce,...
- 6/22/2018
- by David Ehrlich
- Indiewire
The Catcher Was A Spy IFC Films Reviewed by: Harvey Karten Director: Ben Lewin Screenwriter: Robert Rodat Cast: Paul Rudd, Mark Strong, Guy Pearce, Paul Giamatti, Jeff Daniels, Sienna Miller, Tom Wilkinson, Giancarlo Giannini Screened at: Critics’ link, NYC, 6/9/18 Opens: June 22, 2018 I was about to say that there’s not a heck of […]
The post The Catcher Was a Spy Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post The Catcher Was a Spy Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 6/17/2018
- by Harvey Karten
- ShockYa
I've got a fantastic trailer for Paul Rudd's new film The Catcher Was a Spy. This is a very different film for Rudd to be a part of and he did a fantastic job in it. The film is a gripping, stranger-than-fiction espionage thriller that tells the fascinating true story of Moe Berg, a professional baseball player who became a World War II spy.
A Jewish, Princeton-educated, multilingual catcher for the Boston Red Sox with a closely-guarded private life, the enigmatic Berg (Paul Rudd) was already a man of mystery when, in 1944, the Us government’s wartime intelligence agency enlisted his services. His mission: go behind enemy lines in Europe to assassinate the Nazi’s chief nuclear scientist before the Germans develop an atomic bomb. Trading in his catcher’s mitt for a trench coat, Berg must rely on his formidable, steel-trap intellect in a high-stakes game of...
A Jewish, Princeton-educated, multilingual catcher for the Boston Red Sox with a closely-guarded private life, the enigmatic Berg (Paul Rudd) was already a man of mystery when, in 1944, the Us government’s wartime intelligence agency enlisted his services. His mission: go behind enemy lines in Europe to assassinate the Nazi’s chief nuclear scientist before the Germans develop an atomic bomb. Trading in his catcher’s mitt for a trench coat, Berg must rely on his formidable, steel-trap intellect in a high-stakes game of...
- 5/3/2018
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
You’ve heard of “The Catcher in the Rye,” but what about “The Catcher Was a Spy?” Paul Rudd plays the title character in Ben Lewin’s film, which premiered at Sundance earlier this year and is based on the true story of a ballplayer-turned-spy who helped the United States develop an atomic bomb before Nazi Germany. Avail yourself of the trailer below.
Moe Berg (Rudd) has already played in the Major League for 15 seasons when he answers the call of duty, which here comes in the form of putting his unique capabilities — in addition to his athletic acumen, Berg is an Ivy League graduate and attorney — toward the momentous (and top secret) task of defeating Hitler.
Jeff Daniels, Mark Strong, Sienna Miller, Guy Pearce, Paul Giamatti, and Hiroyuki Sanada co-star in the film, which was written by Robert Rodat (“Saving Private Ryan”). IFC Films will release “The Catcher Was a Spy...
Moe Berg (Rudd) has already played in the Major League for 15 seasons when he answers the call of duty, which here comes in the form of putting his unique capabilities — in addition to his athletic acumen, Berg is an Ivy League graduate and attorney — toward the momentous (and top secret) task of defeating Hitler.
Jeff Daniels, Mark Strong, Sienna Miller, Guy Pearce, Paul Giamatti, and Hiroyuki Sanada co-star in the film, which was written by Robert Rodat (“Saving Private Ryan”). IFC Films will release “The Catcher Was a Spy...
- 5/2/2018
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
Distribute sets June 22 release for Sundance premiere.
IFC Films has acquired Us rights to Second World War drama The Catcher Was A Spy starring Paul Rudd, Sienna Miller, Jeff Daniels, Guy Pearce, and Paul Giamatti.
Ben Lewin directed from a screenplay by Robert Rodat based upon Nicholas Dawidoff’s 1994 non-fiction book The Catcher Was a Spy: The Mysterious Life Of Moe Berg.
PalmStar Media’s Kevin Frakes, Animus Films’ Jim Young, Serena Films’ Tatiana Kelly and Windy Hill Pictures’ Buddy Patrick produced the film, which debuted in Sundance at the start of the year. IFC Films has set a theatrical...
IFC Films has acquired Us rights to Second World War drama The Catcher Was A Spy starring Paul Rudd, Sienna Miller, Jeff Daniels, Guy Pearce, and Paul Giamatti.
Ben Lewin directed from a screenplay by Robert Rodat based upon Nicholas Dawidoff’s 1994 non-fiction book The Catcher Was a Spy: The Mysterious Life Of Moe Berg.
PalmStar Media’s Kevin Frakes, Animus Films’ Jim Young, Serena Films’ Tatiana Kelly and Windy Hill Pictures’ Buddy Patrick produced the film, which debuted in Sundance at the start of the year. IFC Films has set a theatrical...
- 5/1/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
IFC Films has acquired the U.S. rights to “The Catcher Was a Spy,” starring Paul Rudd and Sienna Miller, the distribution company announced Tuesday.
Directed by Ben Lewin and written by Robert Rodat, the film is based upon the 1995 non-fiction bestseller “The Catcher Was a Spy: The Mysterious Life of Moe Berg” by Nicholas Dawidoff.
The World War II drama also stars Jeff Daniels, Guy Pearce and Paul Giamatti and was produced by PalmStar Media’s Kevin Frakes, Animus Films’ Jim Young, Serena Films’ Tatiana Kelly and Windy Hill Pictures’ Buddy Patrick.
“The Catcher Was a Spy” is based on the true story of Major League Baseball player Moe Berg, who joined the U.S. in its wartime efforts to defeat the Nazis. But once he ascertains how close the Nazis are to building an atomic bomb, he has to make the life-or-death decision that will impact the rest of humanity.
Directed by Ben Lewin and written by Robert Rodat, the film is based upon the 1995 non-fiction bestseller “The Catcher Was a Spy: The Mysterious Life of Moe Berg” by Nicholas Dawidoff.
The World War II drama also stars Jeff Daniels, Guy Pearce and Paul Giamatti and was produced by PalmStar Media’s Kevin Frakes, Animus Films’ Jim Young, Serena Films’ Tatiana Kelly and Windy Hill Pictures’ Buddy Patrick.
“The Catcher Was a Spy” is based on the true story of Major League Baseball player Moe Berg, who joined the U.S. in its wartime efforts to defeat the Nazis. But once he ascertains how close the Nazis are to building an atomic bomb, he has to make the life-or-death decision that will impact the rest of humanity.
- 5/1/2018
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Paul Rudd takes on one of the most dramatic roles in his career in his upcoming film The Catcher Was a Spy. I’m a big fan of Paul Rudd and he always tends to make interesting and good films with humor. This movie is definitely a departure from what we are used to seeing from Rudd, but he does a great job in it.
The movie is set during World War II and Rudd plays a major league baseball player named Moe Berg, who was a catcher for the Red Sox. It's based on the true story of how he was recruited by the government to assassinate a German scientist named Werner Heisenberg (Mark Strong) who the government believes is developing an atomic weapon for Nazi Germany and they want to stop him.
Before Moe Berg was recruited by the Office of Security Services (the precursor to the CIA), he was a catcher,...
The movie is set during World War II and Rudd plays a major league baseball player named Moe Berg, who was a catcher for the Red Sox. It's based on the true story of how he was recruited by the government to assassinate a German scientist named Werner Heisenberg (Mark Strong) who the government believes is developing an atomic weapon for Nazi Germany and they want to stop him.
Before Moe Berg was recruited by the Office of Security Services (the precursor to the CIA), he was a catcher,...
- 1/30/2018
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
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