Amazon Prime has made a significant move in the entertainment industry by securing the European rights for the highly anticipated gladiator action series, “Those About To Die.” Directed by renowned filmmaker Roland Emmerich and starring the legendary Anthony Hopkins as Roman emperor Vespasian, the 10-part series is based on the nonfiction book of the same name by Daniel P. Mannix.
The deal grants Amazon exclusive rights to the show in the five largest territories in Europe, including Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain, as well as in Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg, and Belgium. In the United States, the series will be available on Peacock, with separate negotiations for free-TV rights. Additionally, Servus TV has secured the free TV window for Austria.
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“Those About To Die” received a straight-to-series order from NBCUniversal’s Peacock, a testament to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the show. The series was skillfully adapted for the screen by Oscar-nominated screenwriter Robert Rodat, acclaimed for his work on the iconic film “Saving Private Ryan.” Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner are directing individual episodes, and all three are serving as executive producers, bringing their creative prowess to the project.
The series is set in ancient Rome and delves into the complex and corrupt world of chariot racing and gladiatorial fights. With Anthony Hopkins in the role of Roman emperor Vespasian, audiences can expect a captivating and compelling performance from the renowned actor. The ensemble cast includes talented actors such as Iwan Rheon, Johannes Haukur Johannesson, Liraz Charhi, Rupert Penry-Jones, Eneko Sagardoy, Tom Hughes, Sara Martins, Gabriella Pession, Alicia Edogamhe, Jojo Macari, Dimitri Leonidas, Moe Hashim, Gonçalo Almeida, Kyshan Wilson, and Pepe Barroso, promising an exciting and dynamic storytelling experience.
Produced by Centropolis Entertainment, Hollywood Gang Productions, and Street Entertainment, “Those About To Die” is a collaborative effort from top-notch production companies. High End Productions and AGC International are co-financing the project, with Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film co-commissioning alongside Peacock. High End is handling European distribution rights, while AGC Television retains worldwide rights.
With its intriguing premise and stellar cast, “Those About To Die” is poised to become a must-watch series for fans of historical dramas and action-packed storytelling. As audiences eagerly await its release, the show promises to take them on an enthralling journey back in time to ancient Rome, exploring the thrilling and dangerous world of chariot racing and gladiatorial combat. Amazon Prime‘s acquisition of the European rights ensures that viewers across the continent will have the opportunity to witness this epic and compelling tale.