Netflix’s Assassin’s Creed is officially set in ancient Rome

Netflix’s Assassin’s Creed Live-Action Series Officially Set in Ancient Rome, Production Underway

In a thrilling development for fans of the iconic gaming franchise, Netflix has officially announced that its highly anticipated live-action Assassin’s Creed series has entered production, with filming now underway in the eternal city of Rome, Italy. Set in the year 64 AD, this ambitious adaptation promises to transport viewers back to a pivotal moment in history, offering a fresh perspective on the centuries-old conflict between the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templar Order.

The series, which was first announced in 2022, has been shrouded in secrecy until now. However, Ubisoft, the developer behind the Assassin’s Creed franchise, has confirmed that the show will tell an original story, distinct from the games’ narratives, while staying true to the core themes of the series. The decision to set the show in 64 AD Rome is particularly intriguing, as it aligns with the historical backdrop of Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood (2010), though the events depicted in the series will occur over a millennium earlier.

A Star-Studded Cast Brings Ancient Rome to Life

Netflix has assembled a talented ensemble cast to bring this epic tale to life. Joining previously announced leads Lola Pettigrew (Trespasses) and Toby Wallace (Babyteeth) are four new recurring cast members:

• Sandra Guldberg-Kampp (Foundation)
• Youssef Kerkour (A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms)
• Mirren Mack (28 Years Later: The Bone Temple)
• Louis McCartney (Broadway’s Stranger Things: The First Shadow)

While specific character details remain under wraps, the diverse and accomplished cast suggests that the series will feature a rich tapestry of personalities, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama of ancient Rome.

Visionary Creators at the Helm

The series boasts an impressive creative team, with Roberto Patino (Westworld, Sons of Anarchy) and David Wiener (Halo, The Killing) serving as creators, showrunners, and executive producers. Their combined experience in crafting complex, character-driven narratives bodes well for the show’s potential to capture the intricate storytelling and historical detail that Assassin’s Creed fans have come to expect.

Filming at the Legendary Cinecittà Studios

Production is primarily taking place at Rome’s iconic Cinecittà Studios, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Italy.” This historic studio complex has been the birthplace of countless cinematic masterpieces and provides the perfect backdrop for recreating the grandeur and intrigue of ancient Rome. The use of practical sets and on-location shooting in Rome itself promises to lend an unparalleled authenticity to the series’ visual aesthetic.

A New Chapter in the Assassin’s Creed Saga

The decision to set the series in 64 AD Rome is particularly noteworthy, as it places the story during the reign of Emperor Nero, a period marked by political intrigue, social upheaval, and the Great Fire of Rome. This historical context offers a wealth of storytelling possibilities, allowing the series to explore themes of power, corruption, and resistance that are central to the Assassin’s Creed narrative.

Moreover, the choice to tell an original story rather than adapt existing game plots demonstrates Netflix and Ubisoft’s commitment to expanding the Assassin’s Creed universe in new and exciting ways. This approach allows the creative team to craft a narrative that will surprise both longtime fans and newcomers alike, while still honoring the franchise’s core mythology.

Building on Ubisoft’s Success with Netflix

This Assassin’s Creed series is not Netflix’s first foray into adapting Ubisoft properties. In 2023, the streaming giant released Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon Remix, an anime series inspired by a Far Cry 3 expansion. Additionally, last year saw the debut of Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, an animated series featuring the popular character Sam Fisher, which received positive reviews from both critics and fans.

These successful collaborations between Netflix and Ubisoft have laid the groundwork for what promises to be the most ambitious video game adaptation yet. The Assassin’s Creed series has the potential to set a new standard for live-action adaptations of gaming franchises, combining historical drama with the action-packed, conspiracy-laden storytelling that has made the games so popular.

What’s Next for the Assassin’s Creed Series?

As production continues in Rome, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting more details about the series. While no release date has been announced, the fact that filming is now underway suggests that we may see the show premiere in late 2024 or early 2025.

In the meantime, the Assassin’s Creed franchise continues to thrive in other mediums. The recent release of Assassin’s Creed Mirage was met with critical acclaim, and rumors of a new installment in the main series continue to circulate. Additionally, the franchise’s expansion into other forms of media, such as novels and comics, ensures that there’s always something new for fans to explore.

As we await further updates on the Netflix series, one thing is certain: the world of Assassin’s Creed is about to get a whole lot bigger. With its rich historical setting, complex characters, and the creative talents behind it, this live-action adaptation has the potential to be a game-changer for both the franchise and the broader landscape of video game adaptations in television.

Tags: Assassin’s Creed, Netflix, live-action series, ancient Rome, 64 AD, production, cast, Ubisoft, Roberto Patino, David Wiener, Cinecittà Studios, Templar Order, Assassin Brotherhood, historical drama, video game adaptation

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