While video game adaptations are popping up everywhere following the success of series like “Fallout,” Netflix’s live-action “Assassin’s Creed” series just made its most significant move yet by landing a heavy hitter to lead the charge.
Johan Renck, the Emmy-winning visionary behind HBO’s “Chernobyl,” has officially signed on to direct the series. Given Renck’s track record for gritty, high-stakes drama, it’s clear Netflix is aiming for a “prestige” feel rather than just a CGI-heavy action show.
The Cast: Rising Stars of the Brotherhood
The series has been quietly building a powerhouse ensemble of rising talent. It will feature Toby Wallace (“Euphoria”) and Lola Petticrew (Say Nothing). Zachary Hart (“Slow Horses”) and Laura Marcus (Death by Lightning) have also joined as series regulars.
The Setting
While Netflix and Ubisoft are keeping specific plot details locked in a vault, rumors are circulating that the first season will take place in Ancient Rome (roughly 54–68 AD). Reports suggest we might even encounter historical figures like Emperor Nero and the philosopher Seneca.
If the rumors are true, this is a significant development for fans, as it explores an era the games have only touched on. The core conflict remains the same: the eternal, shadowy war between those who want to control humanity (the Templars) and those fighting for free will (the Assassins).
Pre-production is already in full swing, with filming set to kick off soon in Italy. This series is the first fruit of the massive deal Netflix and Ubisoft signed back in 2020. With over 230 million games sold and the recent release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the hype for a “proper” live-action version has never been higher.
The Creative Team
Joining Renck behind the scenes are showrunners Roberto Patino (“Westworld”) and David Wiener (“Halo”). With a team that has worked on some of the biggest sci-fi and historical dramas of the last decade, the Brotherhood is in skillful hands.
Renck isn’t exactly a stranger to high-stakes television. Beyond his massive success with “Chernobyl,” he’s built a legendary resume directing episodes for some of the biggest shows ever made, including “Breaking Bad,” “The Walking Dead,” “Vikings,” and “Bates Motel.” In other words, he’s bringing significant talent and experience to “Assassin’s Creed.”
Are you excited about the new adaptation? Let us know in the comments.
