Prime Video Secures Rights for Roland Emmerich’s Gladiator Series “Those About to Die”
Roland Emmerich’s highly anticipated gladiator series, “Those About to Die,” has found a home on Prime Video across Europe. The show, produced by Centropolis, Hollywood Gang, and Street Entertainment, was picked up by High End Productions, a joint venture between Herbert G. Kloiber and Constantin Film.
This deal marks a rare occurrence where a Peacock series can be watched on a different streaming platform in other territories. The rights to air the show have been acquired by Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Poland, Turkey, Andorra, Monaco, Luxembourg, and Belgium. Constantin Film has also revealed that negotiations are still underway with various licensees across Europe for the free TV rights outside the exclusive distribution window on Prime Video.
“Those About to Die” stars celebrated actor Anthony Hopkins as Emperor Vaspasian during the Roman Empire’s peak. With the Roman population becoming increasingly restless and violent, their behavior is kept in check through two main elements: free food and thrilling entertainment in the form of chariot racing and gladiator fights. The races at Circus Maximus are controlled by four Patrician-owned corporations known as the Blue, Red, White, and Green factions. Owning shares in these factions is considered the most valuable asset in Rome.
Joining Hopkins in the cast are Iwan Rheon (“Game of Thrones”), Tom Hughes (“The English, Victoria”), Sara Martins (“Tell No One, Death in Paradise”), and Gabriella Pession (“Crossing Lines”). The series is directed by Emmerich himself, alongside Marco Kreuzpaintner, and the script is penned by Oscar-nominee Robert Rodat (“Saving Private Ryan”).
In addition to “Those About to Die,” Emmerich recently announced a partnership with the team behind “World of Warcraft” for a new franchise called “Space Nation.” This exciting collaboration was revealed in June by Deadline.
Fans of historical dramas and action-packed series can look forward to “Those About to Die” hitting Prime Video in Europe soon, offering a unique and captivating glimpse into the world of ancient Rome.