In the enthralling new series “Those About To Die,” the ancient city of Rome is not merely a backdrop for gladiatorial combat but a complex society where ambition, deceit, and familial bonds intertwine. Iwan Rheon and Sara Martins, who headline the series, bring to life characters that encapsulate the moral ambiguities of Roman society. Rheon, renowned for his portrayal of the sinister Ramsay Bolton in “Game of Thrones,” returns to the screen as Tenax, a character that challenges the traditional depiction of power and loyalty in historical dramas. Alongside him, Sara Martins, portraying Cala, delves into the emotional spectrum of a mother navigating the brutal world of Roman politics to save her son.
The Duality of Tenax and Cala: A Moral Contrast
During a recent interview with FandomWire, both actors discussed their roles and the nuanced portrayal of their characters. Martins expressed that Cala, while initially driven by a straightforward moral intent to rescue her children, reveals layers of complexity and pragmatism as the series progresses.
“Cala can do bad things, too,” Martins revealed, highlighting the dualities that define her character.
Rheon expanded on the multifaceted nature of Tenax, a man born of the streets who aspires to transcend his societal rank.
“He despises this patriarchal, hierarchical society and the Patricians and the aristocracy,” Rheon explained. Yet, his ambition to rise above his station, to potentially run his own faction, is portrayed as both audacious and sympathetic, reflecting the rigid class structures of ancient Rome.
Humanity Amidst the Ruthless: Tenax’s Journey
Finding the humanity in a character capable of unsavory actions was a challenge Rheon embraced, aided by the series’ strong writing. Tenax’s background as a streetwise survivor who looks after children who remind him of his younger self adds depth to his otherwise ruthless exterior. This complexity is further explored in his interactions with Cala, who, according to Rheon,
“disarms him” and unveils a vulnerability that adds layers to his character.
Emotional Core in a World of Spectacle
Martins, on the other hand, anchors the show’s emotional core. The necessity of her storyline, rooted deeply in personal and emotional stakes, balances the action-centric narrative typical of shows set in ancient Rome.
“It shows that there are other races and other fights than those in the arena,” Martins said, emphasizing the importance of portraying the societal contributions of diverse populations within Rome.
A New Lens on Roman Life
“Those About To Die” offers viewers a unique portrayal of Roman life, focusing on elements of society that extend beyond the typical narratives centered around emperors and legendary battles. By exploring the lives of characters like Tenax and Cala, the series provides a broader understanding of the ancient world, one that is rich with drama, conflict, and the struggle for personal redemption.
As “Those About To Die” continues to captivate audiences, it promises to redefine the historical drama genre by combining action with a profound exploration of the human condition in one of history’s most iconic civilizations. Fans of intricate character development and morally complex narratives will find this series a refreshing addition to the portrayal of ancient Rome on screen.
