Cala's Fight: Sara Martins on 'Those About to Die'

Sara Martins, known for her roles in French cinema, takes on a powerful new character in Peacock's epic series *Those About to Die*. She portrays Cala, a Numidian immigrant whose fierce determination leads her on a desperate journey through the heart of the Roman Empire. Driven by a mother's love, she seeks to rescue her children who have been sold into slavery and thrust into the brutal world of gladiatorial combat during the Flavian dynasty. Martins spoke with Entertainment Weekly about bringing Cala to life.

EW: What inspired your performance as Cala?

Martins: I felt a deep connection with Cala, seeing her as a reflection of many women, especially within my own family. My grandmother, for example, was incredibly resourceful, quickly learning a new language and adapting to a different culture to raise her children. Cala's story echoes the journeys of countless immigrant mothers who leave everything behind to secure a better future for their families.

EW: How does Cala differ from the other characters in the series?

Martins: Many of the characters are driven by their desire for power, be it political, social, or financial. However, Cala's sole motivation is the desperate need to save her children. She is willing to do anything, even commit acts of violence, for their sake. She's a powerful figure – intelligent, fierce, and sometimes even frightening.

EW: What was your process for immersing yourself in the mindset of an ancient character?

Martins: The costumes played a significant role. The moment you put on that heavy, handmade clothing, you're transported away from modern life. The weight of the fabric, the lack of modern conveniences – it all forces you to inhabit a different reality. We also developed a Numidian accent, which required meticulous attention to pronunciation, rhythm, and pacing. This helped me to embody the character and give her gravitas.

EW: How does *Those About to Die

offer a fresh perspective on the Roman Empire?

Martins: We're often drawn to the grandeur and spectacle of the Roman Empire, but this series reveals the harsh realities behind that image. It showcases the hidden world of slaves and the impoverished masses who toiled to maintain the city's prosperity.

EW: What can ancient Rome teach us about contemporary society?

Martins: Sadly, we haven't learned much. We still have the same tendencies. The series highlights the human fascination with violence, exemplified by the Colosseum, where spectators were able to experience the brutality firsthand. We still possess that appetite for morbid imagery, which can be exploited by politicians to keep the masses distracted. While we live in less violent times, the inherent human attraction to violence remains.

*All 10 episodes of *Those About to Die

are now streaming on Peacock.*

*This interview has been edited for clarity and length.