The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Ubisoft’s monumental “Assassin’s Creed” franchise has officially commenced filming, with Netflix pulling back the curtain on an ambitious, original story set in the tumultuous heart of ancient Rome in 64 A.D. This cinematic venture, helmed by the critically acclaimed Johan Renck, known for his masterful work on “Chernobyl,” promises to transport audiences to an era of profound historical significance and shadowy intrigue. Production has begun at the legendary Cinecittà Studios in Rome, a fitting backdrop for a series aiming to capture the grandeur and drama of the Roman Empire.
The reveal also brought exciting news regarding the ensemble cast, with a fresh wave of talent joining the ranks of this hotly anticipated video game adaptation. Among the newly announced recurring cast members are Louis McCartney, who recently captivated audiences in the “Stranger Things” stage adaptation “The First Shadow”; Mirren Mack, recognized for her roles in “The Nest” and “The Witcher: Blood Origin”; Youssef Kerkour, set to appear in “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms”; and Sandra Guldberg-Kampp, known for her work on “Foundation.” These additions bolster an already impressive lineup, promising a rich tapestry of characters to navigate the perilous world of ancient Rome.
The previously announced cast, a veritable who’s who of international talent, further underscores the series’ commitment to high-caliber performances. It includes Lola Petticrew, Toby Wallace, Zachary Hart, Laura Marcus, Tanzyn Crawford, Nabhann Rizwan, the formidable Claes Bang, Academy Award-nominated Noomi Rapace, Ramzy Bedia, Sean Harris, and the seasoned Italian actor Corrado Invernizzi. This diverse and experienced cast suggests a narrative with a broad spectrum of perspectives and complex character arcs, appealing to a global audience eager for compelling storytelling within a historical context.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this new series is its specific historical setting. While the “Assassin’s Creed” game franchise has masterfully traversed a myriad of historically accurate and meticulously recreated periods—from the sun-drenched sands of ancient Egypt and the philosophical landscapes of Greece to the artistic fervor of Renaissance Italy, the disciplined world of feudal Japan, and the revolutionary streets of 18th-century France—it has notably never before delved into ancient Rome in 64 A.D. This choice represents a bold departure and an opportunity to explore a pivotal moment in history through the lens of the eternal conflict between the Assassins and the Templars.
The year 64 A.D. is etched into the annals of history for one cataclysmic event: the Great Fire of Rome. This inferno, which reportedly ignited near the city’s colossal chariot stadium, the Circus Maximus, raged for days, engulfing much of the city in flames. At the time, Emperor Nero was conspicuously absent, residing in the coastal resort of Antium, a detail that fueled the infamous adage, “Nero fiddled while Rome burned.” Historically, Nero was widely, though controversially, blamed for the disaster. Accusations ranged from negligence to outright arson, with some claiming the emperor deliberately started the fire to clear land for his grand architectural projects and bypass the Senate. Modern historians, however, lean towards the more prosaic explanation of an accidental blaze. Regardless of its true origin, the fire’s aftermath, the subsequent persecution of Christians, and Nero’s efforts to rebuild Rome presented a period of immense social upheaval, political machination, and fertile ground for the secret war that defines the “Assassin’s Creed” universe. For a series steeped in uncovering hidden histories and challenging established narratives, this setting offers a rich canvas to explore the truth behind the legends, power struggles, and the enduring human quest for freedom amidst chaos.
The decision to base the Netflix “Assassin’s Creed” series entirely within Italy, utilizing the sprawling facilities of Cinecittà Studios, further solidifies its commitment to authenticity and cinematic grandeur. Filming commenced on March 9th and is slated for an intensive seven-month shoot, concluding around October 16th, with a projected release window on Netflix in 2027. Cinecittà, often dubbed “Hollywood on the Tiber,” is not merely a studio but a historical landmark, having hosted legendary productions from Federico Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita” to epics like “Ben-Hur.” The studio’s vast ancient Rome backlot, complete with a meticulously crafted Roman Forum replica, will provide an unparalleled immersive environment. Beyond the studio walls, production will also venture into Rome’s picturesque Lazio region and the stunning landscapes of Tuscany, ensuring that the series not only looks authentic but feels deeply rooted in the Italian soil that has inspired so much art and history.
The “Assassin’s Creed” video game franchise itself is a global phenomenon, boasting sales of over 230 million units worldwide since its inaugural release in 2007. Across its 14 main installments and numerous spin-offs, the series has captivated players with its unique blend of historical fiction, parkour mechanics, and a compelling overarching narrative. At its core, the saga explores the clandestine, centuries-old conflict between two diametrically opposed secret societies: the Brotherhood of Assassins, champions of free will and individual liberty, and the Order of the Templars, who seek to impose order and control upon humanity, often through manipulation and technological advancement. Central to this narrative is the Animus, a machine that allows individuals to access the genetic memories of their ancestors, enabling them to relive pivotal historical moments and track down powerful artifacts known as Pieces of Eden, relics of an ancient, technologically advanced civilization.
The logline for the Netflix series succinctly encapsulates this epic struggle: “centered on the secret war between two shadowy factions — one set on determining mankind’s future through control and manipulation, while the other fights to preserve free will. The series follows its characters across pivotal historical events as they battle to shape humanity’s destiny.” This mission statement aligns perfectly with the core tenets of the franchise, promising a narrative that is both faithful to the source material’s thematic depth and expansive enough to explore new characters and perspectives within this richly imagined world. For a women-focused audience, this overarching theme of free will versus control, particularly when placed in a rigid patriarchal society like ancient Rome, offers compelling avenues to explore female agency, resistance, and the subtle yet powerful ways women might have shaped destiny from the shadows.
Behind the creative vision are established talents from the television industry. Roberto Patino, known for his intricate storytelling on “Westworld,” and David Wiener, the imaginative creator of “Homecoming,” serve as the “Assassin’s Creed” show creators, showrunners, and executive producers. Their combined experience in crafting complex, character-driven narratives with high production values bodes well for the series. They are joined by a robust team of executive producers, including Gerard Guillemot, Margaret Boykin, Austin Dill, and Genevieve Jones from Ubisoft Film & Television, ensuring that the spirit of the game franchise is meticulously maintained, alongside Matt O’Toole. This collaborative effort between seasoned TV creatives and the custodians of the game’s lore is crucial for a successful adaptation.
The production’s dedication to authenticity extends to its world-class crew. Italy’s own Carlo Poggioli, a celebrated costume designer whose credits include the visually stunning “The Leopard” and “The New Pope,” is responsible for bringing the sartorial splendor and historical accuracy of 64 A.D. Rome to life. Poggioli’s expertise ensures that every toga, tunic, and piece of armor will not only be historically precise but also convey character, status, and the prevailing fashion of the era, adding immense depth to the visual storytelling. The choice of costume designer is particularly vital for a period piece aimed at an audience that appreciates meticulous detail and the art of historical recreation. Furthermore, the Italian line producer is Nicola Rosada, a trusted collaborator who has previously worked with Netflix on major Italian shoots for “The Decameron,” “Emily in Paris,” and “La Dolce Villa.” Rosada’s experience in navigating the complexities of large-scale productions in Italy, coupled with the attractive tax rebates that provide up to 40% of eligible production costs, positions Italy as an ideal production hub for this ambitious series, blending artistic integrity with practical efficiency.
Manuela Cacciamani, CEO of Cinecittà Studios, expressed immense pride and honor in a recent statement, reflecting the significance of this project for Italy’s film industry. “I am honored that Netflix has chosen our studios and our sets to create such a spectacular, ambitious series that is eagerly anticipated around the world,” Cacciamani stated. Her words underscore the global recognition and trust placed in Cinecittà’s capabilities. “It is a sign of the credibility and reputation that Cinecittà enjoys internationally, and of the professional guarantee we offer to every kind of production, of any genre and scale.” This sentiment highlights Cinecittà’s standing as a world-class facility capable of handling productions of this magnitude, attracting top-tier international projects and solidifying Italy’s position on the global cinematic map.
Cacciamani further elaborated on the human element behind the studio’s success, emphasizing the invaluable contributions of its skilled artisans. “But I am even more honored by the trust placed in our skilled workforce and in our art department, which is collaborating on the creation of truly spectacular sets. With its masters, Cinecittà confirms itself as a recognized artistic excellence and a source of pride for our country.” This acknowledgement speaks volumes about the dedication and craftsmanship of the Italian crews, whose expertise in set design, construction, and historical recreation will be pivotal in bringing the grandeur and grit of ancient Rome to the screen. For a series that thrives on historical immersion, the hands-on artistry of Cinecittà’s masters is an irreplaceable asset, promising a visually stunning and deeply authentic experience for viewers worldwide. As the cameras roll and the story of freedom versus control unfolds amidst the ashes of the Great Fire, Netflix’s “Assassin’s Creed” stands poised to carve its own legend, not just in the annals of television, but in the enduring legacy of ancient Rome itself.
