Filming has begun in Rome on Netflix’s live-action adaptation of the popular video game franchise, Assassin’s Creed, with the series officially set in 64 AD, the streaming service confirmed Friday.
The series will unfold against the backdrop of ancient Rome during a period of significant upheaval. The year 64 AD marked the Great Fire of Rome, which destroyed two-thirds of the city, and sparked subsequent persecution of Christians under Emperor Nero, who sought to deflect blame for the disaster. The following year saw a failed assassination attempt against Nero, foreshadowing further instability.
Ubisoft, the creator of the Assassin’s Creed franchise, confirmed the setting and timeline via social media, alongside a recap of the show’s extensive cast. The series will present an original story, despite the franchise having previously explored historical settings including ancient Egypt, Greece, Renaissance Italy, feudal Japan, and revolution-era France. The game series previously visited Rome in Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, but that installment was set more than a millennium later.
The ensemble cast includes Toby Wallace (Babyteeth), Lola Petticrew (Say Nothing), and Laura Marcus (The Jetty). Additional cast members confirmed Friday are Tanzyn Crawford, Zachary Hart, Nabhaan Rizwan, Claes Bang, Noomi Rapace, Ramzy Bedia, Sean Harris, Corrado Invernizzi, Sandra Guldberg Kamp, Youseff Kerkour, and Mirren Mack.
Directed by Johan Renck (Chernobyl), the series is currently being filmed at Cinecittà Studios in Rome. Netflix has not yet announced a premiere date.
Nero’s reign, marked by both extravagance and tyranny, ultimately ended in 68 AD, leaving the Roman Empire on the brink of civil war. During his time in power, Nero famously competed in the Olympic Games in ancient Greece, reportedly winning 1,808 prizes.
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