Highlighted Show: “The Great”
Scene between Peter III and Catherine The Great as he goes on a hunting trip.
Background
“The Great” (titled onscreen as The Great: An Occasionally True Story and later as The Great: An Almost Entirely Untrue Story) is a British-American-Australian comedy-drama streaming television series described by its commissioner Hulu as "anti-historical" loosely based on the rise to power of Catherine the Great, Empress of All Russia. All ten episodes of the first season were released on Hulu on May 15, 2020. The series stars Elle Fanning as Empress Catherine II and Nicholas Hoult as the Emperor Peter III.
The show is a brilliant and audacious historical comedy-drama that takes viewers on a delightfully irreverent journey through the courts of 18th-century Russia. Created by Tony McNamara, the show offers a refreshing twist on period drama, infusing it with sharp wit, scintillating dialogue, and an unapologetic modern sensibility.
A Blend of History and Drama
“The Great” came out in 2020 and is an absolutely wonderful show depicting the introduction of Catherine The Great into Tsar Peter III’s royal court in Russia. The contrast of culture is absolutely delightful to watch. The show depicts Russia’s unique barbarism in contrast with Catherine The Great’s Germanic civility (if 16th century Germans can be described as civil)…
“The Great" manages to strike a remarkable balance between historical accuracy and creative liberty. Elle Fanning, who stars as Catherine, delivers a tour de force performance that brings both vulnerability and cunning to the character. Nicholas Hoult's portrayal of the erratic and eccentric Emperor Peter adds a dynamic layer of charm and complexity to the series.
McNamara's ingenious blend of history and humor is further amplified by the show's willingness to explore the complexities of its characters. Each member of the ensemble cast, from the cunning Catherine to the quirky courtiers, is imbued with depth and nuance. The relationships between characters evolve with surprising authenticity, shifting seamlessly from comedic exchanges to moments of genuine emotional resonance.
Acting and Visual Design
Visually, “The Great” is a sumptuous feast for the eyes. The juxtaposition of lavish opulence with the characters' quirky and often outrageous behavior creates a delightful visual contrast that serves as a visual representation of the show's unique tone. Some of the scenes are absolutely hilarious as fire-drills occur in the royal court, and characters loose their cool in their stiff and ridiculous 18th century outfits. The show also makes 18th century clothes and outfits seem very relatable as the characters struggle to keep wigs and other clothing items in accordance with how they are supposed to be worn.
The cast has wonderful chemistry and the set and costume design are beautiful. The opulent costumes, intricate set designs, and breathtaking locations immerse the audience in the lavish world of the Russian court, bringing to life both the grandeur and the absurdity of the era. You can tell very easily that the show used a high production budget.
The Intricacies of The Emperor and his Inner Circle
What truly sets “The Great” apart is its fearless approach to storytelling. It fearlessly navigates taboo subjects, societal norms, and power dynamics, all while maintaining a razor-sharp sense of humor. The show's biting satirical commentary on gender politics, aristocratic excess, and the absurdity of power struggles is executed with a finesse that draws laughter as readily as it incites contemplation.
Peter and his court drink and carouse and break things. There is a good deal of unceremonious sex and random violence here (some of it against animals, you might like to know), mostly punching and kicking. The interplay of immaturity within the context of the narrative is an aspect that adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the storytelling. At times, this immaturity takes on an endearing quality, evoking a sense of innocence and relatability that resonates with viewers. The moments when characters display their vulnerabilities and childlike traits can be heartwarming, eliciting a sense of empathy and fondness for their authenticity.
Yet, beneath the surface of this occasional adorableness lies a deeper undercurrent that carries a tinge of disquiet. The juxtaposition of this immaturity with the broader themes of the narrative can create a dissonance that prompts viewers to delve into the complexities of human behavior and psychology. The show's ability to navigate this dichotomy, presenting characters who exhibit both endearing naiveté and disturbing actions, speaks to its commitment to crafting multi-dimensional individuals. The emperor surrounds himself with people who laugh at his jokes and applaud his inanities and answer “Huzzah!” when he says “Huzzah,” which he says a lot. He lives in a bubble in which he mostly sees his own reflection.
This duality becomes even more intriguing when considered within the context of character development. As the story unfolds, the audience is afforded glimpses into the characters' pasts, motivations, and inner conflicts. This exploration often reveals the roots of their immaturity, shedding light on the factors that contribute to their behaviors, be they charming or unsettling. This narrative approach adds a layer of depth that transcends initial impressions, fostering a deeper understanding of the characters' actions and choices.
Conclusion
While “The Great” certainly embraces its irreverence, it also deftly delves into the psychology of power, ambition, and the sacrifices required for societal advancement. The narrative's exploration of Catherine's journey from naive bride to a shrewd and strategic ruler is a captivating arc that underscores the show's underlying themes.
“The Great” is an extraordinary blend of historical drama and contemporary satire. It's a show that defies conventions, challenges expectations, and masterfully balances humor with introspection. With its exceptional performances, incisive writing, and sumptuous visuals, "The Great" stands as a must-watch series that takes history, turns it on its head, and presents it with an audacious and thoroughly entertaining twist.
I highly recommend this show to anyone with a proclivity to period dramas/shows. The comedic aspects also help keep the show upbeat and add substantial depth and quality to the scenes and characters.
