Convention - SDCC 2024 : Step into Ancient Rome with Peacock’s Immersive Those About to Die Offsite Experience

By Mulder, San Diego, Convention Center,, 26 july 2024

Peacock’s Those About to Die offsite at San Diego Comic-Con 2024 was nothing short of a spectacular experience, immersing attendees in the heart of ancient Rome with a level of detail and excitement that few offsite events could match. This activation, held at the iconic Circus Maximus, succeeded in transporting fans from the modern-day hustle of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter into the grand and thrilling world of chariot racing and gladiatorial contests.

The offsite event was designed to replicate the grandeur of Roman games, and it did so with an impressive level of authenticity. From the moment attendees entered the space, they were greeted by actors in full Roman garb, setting the tone for an experience that was both fun and historically evocative. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the careful seclusion of the arena, which effectively blocked out the modern surroundings and allowed participants to fully immerse themselves in the ancient setting.

One of the most compelling aspects of the event was the chariot racing itself. Attendees were divided into teams, each assigned a color, and given the chance to compete in a simulated race that combined physical activity with strategic teamwork. The races, though brief, were packed with excitement, with each team striving to coordinate their movements to guide their horses to victory. The host’s live commentary added an extra layer of engagement, mixing humor with play-by-play analysis that kept participants and spectators alike entertained throughout.

The thoughtful design of the experience ensured that everyone had an opportunity to participate actively. Each attendee was given a turn at the reins, ensuring no one felt left out. This inclusivity was a key strength of the event, as it maintained a high level of energy and involvement from start to finish. The live commentary by the host was another standout feature, bringing humor and liveliness to the races, which only added to the overall immersive quality of the experience.

In addition to the racing, the offsite also offered other Roman-themed activities that allowed attendees to engage more deeply with the world of ancient Rome. Whether it was mingling with actors portraying Roman citizens or exploring the meticulously crafted set pieces, every aspect of the offsite was designed to reinforce the illusion of time travel. The attention to detail was evident not only in the physical setup but also in the performances of the actors, who stayed in character and contributed to the immersive experience.

Another element that attendees appreciated was the efficient timing of the event. The entire experience, including the chariot race and other activities, was designed to last about 15 minutes—long enough to be satisfying but short enough not to take up too much time during the busy Comic-Con schedule. This balance made it an ideal offsite for attendees looking to experience something unique without having to commit a significant portion of their day.

Moreover, Peacock ensured that the experience left a lasting impression by providing participants with a commemorative pin, a tangible reminder of their time as a Roman charioteer. This small token, along with the memories of the immersive experience, was a perfect way for fans to take a piece of ancient Rome home with them.

Beyond the offsite, the activation served as an effective promotional tool for Peacock’s upcoming series “Those About to Die. The offsite was not just an isolated event but part of a broader marketing campaign that included panels and behind-the-scenes features, all of which highlighted the show's epic scope and historical depth. The presence of cast members and creators at the convention further enriched the experience, providing fans with insights into the making of the series and the historical context that inspired it.

Peacock’s Those About to Die offsite was a triumph in immersive entertainment at San Diego Comic-Con 2024. It combined historical authenticity with interactive fun, offering attendees a chance to experience the thrill of ancient Roman chariot racing in a way that was both engaging and memorable. For those who had the opportunity to participate, it was undoubtedly a highlight of the convention, blending entertainment, education, and excitement into a uniquely compelling package

Those About to Die is an epic historical drama series that brings to life the brutal and politically charged world of ancient Rome's gladiatorial games. Developed by Robert Rodat and directed by the renowned Roland Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner, the series is an adaptation of the book by Daniel P. Mannix. Premiering on July 18, 2024, on Peacock, and available internationally on Amazon Prime Video, the show explores the complex dynamics of power, entertainment, and survival within the Roman Empire. Centered around charioteers, gladiators, and the intricate political machinations surrounding the Emperor, the series immerses viewers in a world where life and death decisions are made not just in the arena, but also in the corridors of power. The show features a star-studded cast, including Anthony Hopkins as the aging Emperor Vespasian, and delves into the personal and political struggles of various characters, from crime lords to warriors, all set against the backdrop of Rome's infamous games. With its high production values, intense action sequences, and deep character development, Those About to Die offers a gripping portrayal of a civilization where the spectacle of death was a form of both entertainment and control.

Synopsis : 
Rome in 79 A.D.: The center of the Roman Empire is the richest city in the world, and there's a massive influx of slaves from the expanding empire to take over the work. The Roman population - bored, restless and increasingly violent - is kept in line mainly by two things: free food and spectacular entertainment, in the form of chariot races and gladiatorial combat. The Circus Maximus races are controlled by four patrician-owned corporations, the Blue, Red, White and Green factions, and the shares of these four factions are Rome's most precious commodities. As the population's taste in entertainment became increasingly jaded and bloodthirsty, a stadium specially designed for gladiatorial combat was needed: the Colosseum. The sheer scale of the stadium, the gladiatorial and animal fights, and the underground world of flourishing betting were enormous. Underground, beneath the bleachers, thousands of people work and live, including thousands who will die for the games.

Those About to Die
Based on Those About to Die by Daniel P. Mannix
Written by Robert Rodat
Directed by Roland Emmerich, Marco Kreuzpaintner
Starring Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson,,Rupert Penry-Jones, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas, Emilio Sakraya, David Wurawa, Pepe Barroso, Gonçalo Almeida, Eneko Sagardoy, Lara Wolf, Romana Maggiora Vergano, Angeliqa Devi, Anthony Hopkins
Executive producers : Roland Emmerich, Robert Rodat, Gianni Nunnari, Harald Kloser, Marco Kreuzpaintner, Oliver Berben, Herbert G. Kloiber, Martin Moszkowicz, Jonas Bauer, Stuart Ford, Lourdes Diaz, Charles Holland
Cinematography : Vittorio Omodei Zorini,Daniel Gottschalk
Production companies : AGC Studios, Centropolis Entertainment, Hollywood Gang Productions, Street Entertainment
Network : Peacock (United States), Amazon Prime Video (International)
Release July 18, 2024

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Photos and video  : Boris Colletier / Mulderville