The Great: A Royal Tale of Wit and Intrigue
Pronounced amidst the political fiat of 18th century, ‘The Great’ follows the journey of Catherine the Great from her wedding with Emperor Peter III. Instead, what the audience gets is a chaotic, engrossing story of hunger for power, deception, and stark reality of what it is to be a monarch.
‘The Great’ is about ambition and sin, about power and love, and it has a number of laughs; intentionally so, I believe. It gives a glimpse of personal and political intrigues in a historical setting of a period drama.
Actually, Elle Fanning as Catherine is nothing less than exceptional in her performance. She aptly portrays the corporate woman, ambitious, smart and professionally challenged in a world full of dilemma. Nicholas Hoult offers an excellent counterbalance as the effervescent yet tyrannical Peter III.
Under the skilled direction of Colin Bucksey, Matthew Moore, and Ben Chessell, The Great delivers sharp, focused scenes that blend satire with historical detail, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
The series score complements its vibrant narrative, intricately woven to enhance the intense emotional journey of its characters, seamlessly connecting the audience to both the humor and gravitas of the period.
The cinematography is a visual treat, capturing the grandiosity of the Russian court with lush, detailed shots that emphasize the lavishness and decay of the era.
Production design excels in recreating the opulence and grit of the Russian Empire, with exquisite detail in costume and setting, transporting viewers directly into Catherines world.
While primarily character-driven, the series utilizes special effects sparingly and effectively, highlighting key historical elements that heighten its drama without overwhelming the narrative.
Crisp editing maintains a balanced pace that fluctuates between moments of quiet intensity and high-stakes tension, ensuring a gripping viewing experience.
The series maintains a brisk yet accommodating pace, managing to delve into complex character arcs without losing the witty undertone central to its storytelling.
Dialog in The Great is sharp, witty, and layered with irony. It is informed by a certain degree of hilarity alternating with dramatic analysis of the characters’ relationships.
While ‘The Great’ is overly dependent on the concept of ridiculous comedy and, therefore, overshadows the more significant aspects of the historical context, it is slightly unconvincing in its crucial moments.
‘The Great’ is a royal and producing historical drama that combines the aspects of humor and critical premise of political power and leadership. It makes the listener orreader reflect on what costs the attainment of power and legacy in a volatile environment.
