Tom Hiddleston, known for his roles in Marvel films and 'The Night Manager', has ventured into historical documentary hosting with National Geographic's 'Pompeii: Out of Time with Tom Hiddleston'. The new series, which delves into the catastrophic AD79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the fate of Pompeii, is already generating significant discussion due to Hiddleston's distinctive and theatrical approach to presenting. Rather than adopting a conventional documentary style, Hiddleston incorporates dramatic flourishes, such as 'rewinding' historical events with a click of his fingers, manipulating computer-generated data mid-air, and even pausing conversations to offer his own Latin translations to academics.
This unconventional hosting style has been described by some as 'cringe-worthy' but also 'fearlessly earnest'. Hiddleston delivers his lines with a pronounced, almost histrionic gravitas, often staggering sentences for dramatic effect. His interactions with classical scholars in the programme are frequently scripted, featuring light-hearted banter and CGI-enhanced asides that some viewers find alienating rather than engaging. For instance, he is seen welling up while contemplating an orphaned child of Pompeii or intently studying a research corkboard plastered with post-it notes, drawing comparisons to a detective investigating a complex case.
The series aims to 'humanise' the ancient tragedy and make history more accessible, but Hiddleston's highly performative presence has led to an 'odd duck' of a show. While his deep personal connection to Pompeii is evident – stemming from an affecting visit at age 17 that inspired him to study Classics at Cambridge – his acting background appears to permeate his presenting role throughout the documentary. This contrasts sharply with the more relaxed and natural styles of established history presenters like Lucy Worsley or travelogue hosts such as Michael Palin.
Despite the critical commentary on his presenting style, Hiddleston's commitment to the subject matter is clear. The series features dramatic reconstructions to visualise the events of AD79, when up to 16,000 people were tragically killed by the pyroclastic surge from Mount Vesuvius. The programme explores the lives of Pompeii's residents, using archaeological evidence and expert insights to reconstruct their final moments and the devastating impact of the eruption.
For some, Hiddleston's willingness to embrace opportunities for 'humiliation' and his sheer earnestness are admirable. However, the show's reception highlights a broader discussion about the evolving format of historical documentaries and the role of celebrity hosts. While Hiddleston remains a beloved figure for many, particularly online, this new venture sees him explore a different facet of his public persona, prompting viewers to consider whether his inherent theatricality enhances or detracts from the historical narrative.