"Those About To Die": Hermes' Tragic Fate & Domitian's Reign

What happens when power, passion, and peril collide in the heart of the Roman Empire? In the world of "Those About to Die," the answer is a captivating tapestry of ambition, betrayal, and survival, where the whispers of the Colosseum echo through the corridors of power.

The sprawling canvas of the Roman Empire, a realm of unmatched grandeur and ruthless efficiency, provides the backdrop for "Those About to Die," an epic historical drama that plunges viewers into a world teetering on the brink. Developed by Robert Rodat, with direction helmed by Roland Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner, the series, a Peacock production, promises a visceral exploration of a society consumed by both spectacle and savage politics. The very title, with its chillingly direct statement, sets the tone: a world where life is fleeting, and death is a performance.

Within the arena of Roman society, a young Greek named Hermes navigates the treacherous waters of power. He finds himself in a complex relationship with Domitian, the emperor. Despite the intimate nature of their connection, Hermes finds himself in a precarious position. His role as both a lover and a slave to Domitian does not guarantee him any form of affection or respect. Instead, he finds himself constantly at the mercy of Domitian's moods and whims. In a world where loyalty is a fleeting commodity, Hermes is constantly at risk of being discarded. His life becomes a delicate dance, a constant negotiation between his survival and the demands of his master. This dynamic, of love mingled with servitude and the ever-present threat of ruin, provides a compelling microcosm of the larger power struggles within the empire.

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Alessandro Bedetti, in the 2024 series "Those About to Die," brings the character of Hermes to life. The series plunges into the heart of the Roman Empire, its dark corners, and the lives of those who either wield power or succumb to its brutality. The show focuses on the bloody gladiatorial games, the intricate political machinations, and the personal dramas of those involved.

Category	Details
Name	Alessandro Bedetti
Born	(Date of birth not publicly available)
Nationality	Italian
Occupation	Actor
Known For	Portraying Hermes in "Those About to Die" (2024)
Character in "Those About to Die"	Hermes, a young Greek who is the lover and slave of Emperor Domitian.
Associated Themes	Love, power, manipulation, survival, and the complex dynamics within the Roman court.
Portrayal	The character appears to be a study in contrasts a man of intimacy and servitude, navigating the dangerous waters of the Roman political landscape.

Reference Link: IMDB

The show captures a pivotal period in the Roman Empire, taking place amidst the "mean streets" and the political maneuvering of a city always one wrong move away from chaos. The series boasts a cast including Iwan Rheon, known for his role in Game of Thrones, portraying the character of Tenax, alongside Sara Martins, Jojo Macari, and Moe Hashim. Domitian's ascent reshapes the Roman political landscape as the series progresses.

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The narrative unfolds with an almost relentless pace, making it accessible and engrossing. However, this can come at the cost of complexity. Character motivations, though driving the story forward, sometimes feel a little simplistic, and the plot can lean towards predictability. This simplification serves to highlight the dramatic intensity of the historical era, focusing on key characters.

The brutal reality of the arena is not shied away from. The gladiatorial contests and chariot races offer moments of high-octane drama, reflecting the empire's obsession with spectacle and its brutal efficiency. In the episode 9 recap and review, the focus shifts to Tenax, relaying information to Domitian regarding the financial demands. The ensuing gambling and the consequential stakes add an element of tension. Meanwhile, Elia prepares for her next race, with Scorpus and Fonsa vying for gold in the Gold Faction. The story then focuses on Viggo who faces a forced battle with Kwame, the fight happens due to the lives of Viggo's son and Kwame's sister that are being threatened by Domitian.

The creative process is often guided by intuition, and on the set of "Those About to Die," that instinct was essential. Saving oneself calls for animal instinct and in such settings, the characters often navigate a world where they must prioritize self-preservation. In this ruthless arena of politics and violence, the characters are pushed to their limits, their every decision shaped by the constant threat of death.

The series' version of Domitian draws parallels with Nero, particularly in the realm of his personal life. This portrayal underscores the emperor's excesses and the moral decay that gripped the ruling class. However, such moments can feel underdeveloped. There's a noticeable lack of screen time dedicated to these intricate relationships, making it difficult for the audience to emotionally connect with them. The "love story" may not find room to breathe or evolve. This impacts the emotional involvement in the relationships portrayed.

As the series unfolds, there is a critical point when, apart from the main gladiator focus, the audience perceives the quality of the writing and dialogues as being substandard. Despite the epic scale and high production values, the series struggles at moments with the core elements of storytelling.

In episode 8, the show underscores the rise of Domitian and its reshaping of the political landscape. The emergence of Tenax and Cala, gaining influence, and Kwame facing personal consequences for survival, are important parts of the narrative. The ensemble of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire becomes a major component of the storyline.

The character of Hermes, as played by Alessandro Bedetti, becomes a focal point, offering a unique perspective. The young Greek, entangled in the web of the imperial court, embodies the complexities of power and the precarious nature of human connections. His role as both lover and slave to Domitian sets him at odds with the prevailing hierarchy, making him vulnerable and at risk.

Domitian's character is particularly compelling. He is the youngest son of Vespasian and the brother of Titus. The show underscores his pursuit of power, achieved in the arenas of Rome. He masterfully organizes gladiatorial contests and races to entertain the masses.

The series adaptation of "Those About to Die," however, also becomes a source of satirical commentary. It is presented as an exaggerated fictional work, playing on the emotional investment in the drama. The characters are often caricatures, and the plot is driven by a blend of historical facts and dramatic liberties.

The series' creators aim to portray a story of spectacle and brutality while delving into the hearts and minds of those living through the Roman era. From the bloody arena to the imperial palace, "Those About to Die" aspires to offer a complete portrayal of the world of the emperors and gladiators.

The emotional core of "Those About to Die" is found in the interactions between characters like Hermes and Domitian, and the broader examination of the nature of power, love, and survival. As these relationships evolve, the audience must consider the potential for heartbreak and betrayal.

The show's depiction of Rome is a stark contrast of opulence and cruelty. The architecture, the costumes, and the settings are visually impressive. These elements highlight the scale and grandeur of the Roman world, while also emphasizing the brutality. This is reflected in the events that occur.

The series' strength is in its capacity to transport the audience back to the age of gladiators and emperors. It succeeds in creating a complete environment. The series emphasizes the danger, the stakes, and the emotional intensity of the historical period.

Ultimately, the success of "Those About to Die" will rest on its ability to maintain a captivating blend of drama, action, and complex characters. It requires that viewers remain invested in the fate of Hermes, Domitian, and the myriad others who populate this perilous realm. The series promises an immersive and thought-provoking experience. The series will be judged on its success in bringing the splendor and brutality of ancient Rome to life.