**FOLLOWING IS A SERIES REVIEW AND THEN EPISODE REVIEWS FOLLOW AFTER**
Series Review
The Great has many similarities with Yorgos Lanthimos’s film, The Favourite (2018), which is an absurd take on the period drama which took a look at the gout-ridden Queen Anne in 1711. This show has many similarities in the sense, that it is filmed in a similar way and the dialogue used is witty and direct.
The Great is a new show on Hulu and due to hit UK screens soon (possibly Channel 4 in summer 2020). Season 1 is made up of 10 episodes which tells the tale of the Russian female monarch, Catherine the Great. Catherine played by Elle Fanning is remembered as one of Europe’s most powerful monarchs. There are also been a series recently starring Helen Mirren which showed Catherine the Great later on in life. In this series, The Great, we see Catherine beginning to find her voice. Overall, this is a coming of age comedy drama. This show tells the audience that is an 'occasionally true story', just like The Favourite, The Great isn’t completely historically accurate. All the characters that appear are real but not everything we see is true. Even some of the language used is out of its time and more modern than how they would have spoken in the 1700s.
The concept of this show is about 19-year-old Catherine who heads to Russia for marriage in 1761. Catherine played by Fanning is unhappily married to Emperor Peter of Russia (played by Nicholas Hoult). Emperor Peter is like a man-child, as his actions and temper is unpredictable and it is difficult to take him seriously as a ruler as he knows little and his ideas don't make sense/work. Catherine is appalled by the Russian court, public sex, severed head and many other acts of cruelty. Peter lacks the interest in progress that Catherine wishes to deploy in Russia. As a result, Catherine plans a coup, which is the execution of her husband. This plot is the main focus on the entire series.
There are many themes throughout this show but all centre on the character Catherine as it is something she is going through or causes. Fanning puts on an impressive performance throughout this series, we see a woman who is trying to overcome and juggle many issues including her own doubts and dealing with her feelings towards her assigned court lover Leo (played Sebastian de Souza). In any period, film series or play there are always tensions between the church and science which we see half-way through this series. This tension between science and religion is a battle between Catherine and Orthodox archbishop Archie (played by Adam Godley), who tries to push his ideals onto the court and Catherine who fights against it. We see the importance of class and the importance that is placed on it; this is show-cased through the sharp-tongued maid Marial (played by Phoebe Fox) who lost her status and struggles adjusting to her new class. Catherine is in a difficult situation with lots to deal with but she has help from the politician Orlo (Sacha Dhawan). Fanning manages to pull this character off amazingly, she is funny and witty but sharp when needed to be. When she is in a scene all our eyes are on her.
The sets and costumes are excellent we are transported, every detail has been thought about. Fanning's dresses are beautiful to look at. Like The Favourite, the dialogue is crude at times and the casting is colour-blind. Fanning has great chemistry with everyone she is in a scene with. It is a particular joy to watch Fanning and Fox in a scene together, this duo works really well and it is clear that their characters are true friends that complement each other. Fanning and Souza are perfect in scenes together. Souza does really well in showing how Leo the lover struggles in sharing Catherine. It is clear he loves the Empress and she loves him but Emperor Peter is in their way. Hoult does a great job in portraying this childish emperor. It is interesting to see how this character changes as the series goes on but also how much he relies on his council of peers as he is uneducated and struggles with making decisions. He only cares about hunting, eating and sex. This character can become annoying to watch as his attitude and personality is constantly changing but he keeps you engaged with his unpredictable nature. Dhawan is amazing and puts on a great performance as Orlo, this character goes on a journey. He is a worrier because if he isn’t worried to save his life then he would die. Dhawan's performance is enjoyable to watch.
At the heart, The Great, is all about playing games to gain one up to someone else. It about the fight between choice and force. Overall, this series is addictive, you want to know if Catherine will win or what/who can stop her. Performances are amazing along with excellent visuals, dialogue and some action can be shocking but definitely worth a watch. Hopefully, this show will get another season.
Episode 1: The Great
We are introduced to all the main characters in this episode. We meet Catherine (Fanning) she is optimistic, sweet and a romantic; she is seen as very beautiful at court. This romance and sweetness in her quickly dies once meets Emperor Peter (Hoult). Peter is wild and unpredictable; he kills and attacks with no reason. Catherine and Peter are wed, but it isn’t a happy marriage. Catherine struggles to fit in at court with the ladies, they are interested in hats whereas she is interested in reading, knowledge and new ideas. She attempts to open a school for women which burnt by Peter due to it being for women. Peter claims that "women are for seeding, not reading", this line is the turning point in this episode, where Catherine's love is gone and replaced by pure hatred. By the end Catherine doesn’t feel as she belongs in Russia and attempts to leave.
Scenes between Fanning and Hoult are enjoyable to watch as their characters have two completely different energies which bounce off each other well. It will be interesting to see how this relationship and chemistry will develop in the coming episodes.
Fox who plays Marial is hilarious in this episode, she is very funny with her one-liners and the way she responds to Catherine. Fox plays this role as a tough character who is also incredibly feisty which compliments Fanning's delicate portrayal of Catherine. Marial use to be a lady of the court but she and her family been made a servant.
A moment in this episode which very unexpected and shocking is seeing the corpse of Peter's mother. Peter can't bear to bury her so her corpse has remained in court still in her clothes. This moment remains me of Hitchcock’s film Psycho, with the dead mother's body. It is quite shocking and surprising to witness and we wonder what Emperor Peter’s mental state is. We can already tell that he isn’t the most mentally stable but we wonder why, what has made him this way? In the end we discover it was his upbringing and his parents.
Overall, this episode sets up all the characters nicely, we gain an understanding about where they all stand and their class. Performances from all the cast are exciting as we hope these great performances will carry on throughout the next nine episodes. There are funny moments which are so silly we wonder why this has been done yet are extremely enjoyable to watch.
Episode 2: The Beard
Compared to the first episode, this episode is a lot more gruesome, the poking of the severed heads eyes and popping them out, can be difficult for some to watch. Another gruesome moment is watching Marial getting whipped, it feels very realistic and we see the pain she is going through, it is difficult to watch. Yet this was common in the time this show was series but for a modern audience it is shocking to watch anyone get whipped.
In this episode Catherine and Marial's friendship is growing from strength to strength, as they know they can both rely on each other. Alongside this Fanning and Dhawan have a great friendship onscreen, even when Catherine has to seduce Orlo, this scene is a highlight of this episode as its uncomfortable but funny to watch. We see how cautious Dhawan's character is but it reflects the life he has had to live, the past 10 years at court.
Catherine has begun her plotting to get her revenge on Peter. A major theme in this episode is the idea of free will. The notion that the court and people have freedom of choice, it is their choice to have a beard or shave it off. Orlo is in support of there being more freedom of choice and will, this is theme and notion many us of know about. It is interesting to see how Orlo has to go about to get tiny acts achieved for free will to happen in the court but normally he is unsuccessful.
Again, performances are great in this episode, we see the key themes that will carry on throughout this series. Performances are strong and we see friendships growing which is exciting to see how they will develop.
Episode 3: And You Sir, Are No Peter the Great
Catherine has her team together, they begin making plans for her rule while Peter also gives Catherine is given a lover, Leo to make her happy. What this episode tells us is Peter isn’t a leader, he can't lead, isn’t good at strategies or planning. His military think he is a joke when he actually really trying. Hoult does something clever here as previously we may have thought of him as child having tantrums but we are made to feel sorry for the character as he is actually trying to no one takes him seriously. It also shows how uneducated Peter in these situations, this is most likely due to his age but also no one around him has much faith in him. Hoult makes us feel bad for Peter as for once he is trying.
In this episode, we discover how much of a worrier Orlov is. This role is really suited to Dhawan but this worrying nature can get quite annoying at times but it is clear why he is portrayed as a worrier. Orlo is a worrier while Marial is fearless, these two characters do clash a lot but they could also be seen as the two thoughts in Catherine's mind. She wants to do something yet she worries the outcome and what else she needs to do to make it go smoothly.
What is most noticeable in this episode is that we see a new and different side to Peter, it is calmer and intriguing to see. Along with this it is interesting to see that Catherine doesn’t sit like a lady (or how a lady is expected to sit), this may be choice made by Fanning and director which fits in with the show as it isn’t entirely historically accurate but it is interesting she sits more like a man during her planning meetings. Is this supposed to highlight that she can take on the power and responsibility of leading Russia just like all the Emperors before her.
Episode 4: Moscow Mule
Catherine and Leo are growing closer, now not just lovers but maybe more. Emotions are starting to creep into this relationship. There is intense chemistry between Fanning and Souza, scenes between these two actors draw you in, you can feel the love and connection between them. As feelings grow between Catherine and Leo, the passion increases in their scenes together.
Rumours spread by the ladies of the court towards Catherine are the main focus of this episode. We see Catherine try all she can to win over the ladies. In the end we see a very strong side to Catherine. Fanning does a great job; she is very convincing in her actions and words. Her delivery is spot on and really makes a point. We can also see how the character is feeling or thinking and it is clear that this character is complex but Fanning makes it easy to understand her. As a result, it is a joy to watch Fanning in any scene, the focus and spotlight is always on her and she takes full advantage of it even when she isn’t saying anything. Facial expressions say so much and used in great effect.
Overall, this episode focuses on Catherine and we see a change in her, she starting to become stronger compared to the first episode, she is making plans and is cunning. We are seeing a glimpse of maybe the type of ruler Catherine will become.
Episode 5 - War and Vomit
A lot happens in this episode we deal with the harsh reality of war for the people fighting and Peter fighting for his life.
Catherine goes to the front line of the war; she is shocked by what she sees. She wants the war to end but no one takes her seriously at the council. It feels extremely awkward to watch Catherine deliver her speech to the council. It is clear she isn’t ready to lead yet there is potential but she doesn’t know enough about Russia.
Alongside Catherine trying to take over and make her mark and failing we see Peter fighting for his life. Grigor played by Gwilym Lee, is Peters best friend but his wife, Georgina (played by Charity Wakefield) sleeps with the Emperor. This is starting to affect Grigor and he is tired of sharing his wife, it begins to become too much and Grigor decides to take drastic action. Hoult is great in this episode especially when he is dying, we feel bad for him but it is exciting to see what his peers around him are going to do. It is strangely funny to watch the amount of people who try to suffocate him yet he still manages to survive. We see a side to Catherine we may not expect, she has wanted Peter dead for so long but when it may happen she crumbles and doesn’t want him gone as she isn’t ready.
Marial is a very strong and headstrong character but she begins to grate in this episode, she only cares about getting her status back to a lady of the court. She betrays Catherine in revealing information to Archie (played by Adam Godley), we are seeing her true colours and makes her less likable. We see that really she is all out for herself instead of helping her friends.
The focus is how Catherine buckles under the pressure of taking control as Peter holds onto life, we see a more vulnerable side to this character and a loving side who also doesn’t want her husband to die. Good performances from Fanning, Hoult and Lee but Fox's performance isn’t as enjoyable as it was previously.
Episode 6: Parachute
Peter is a changed man; he wants to change and is beginning to accept Catherine's new ideas. Whilst Orlo goes to the front and he leaves a change man, it was interesting to see this worrier being up on the spot and having to act out of character. It is clear he is a lover not a fighter but in the situation he has been forced into another side comes out of him. Dhawan does a perfect job in portraying the inner battle that Orlo is experiencing and the how he deals with the outcome of the decision he makes.
As mentioned Peter is starting to come onboard with Catherine's ideas and views on helping the people more while introducing the court to more art, music and science exhibitions. A memorable moment is watching Peter walk through the palace naked talking to servant Vlad (played by Louis Hynes) about gravity. It is humorous to see all the courts reactions to the Emperor walking around naked and not having a care in the world.
We learn that Aunt Elizabeth (played by Belinda Bromilow) lost all her children and we can see that this still affects her. Bromilow is great in this show, she looks after her family and offers insight to Catherine. She is a true friend, seen as quite strange and weird yet she is knowledgeable and just wants to do what is best for Russia. She is a loved character and it would be a shame for anything to happen her. Bromilow always puts on a perfect performance which adds emotion and charm to any scenes she is in.
Leo is hurt in this episode as he realises that he struggles to share Catherine, he forgets that she is a married women and he is her lover yet he loves her so it breaks his heart when Peter actually wants to be with Catherine. Finally, Marial is becoming more and more frustrated with Catherine, calling her a coward from her actions in the previous episode. This is quite harsh and comes across as a bit uncalled for, considering it would be difficult for anyone in that situation. Marial's action seem a bit over the top and not needed as Catherine knows she didn’t take full advantage of the situation but it was a wakeup call for her and learnt her lesson.
This episode is all about religion vs science, a battle/debate that we see in almost all period dramas. It is something that all societies went through, the unknowingness and fear of what science could do is clear in this episode but the notion of trying to see what it could do is explored and the outcome is joy. This is theme that we will most likely see again and again and likely won’t go away.
We learn new things about the side characters and see them in a new light. We are also introduced to the key debate of science vs religion, a theme that isn’t going to go away any time soon. Most performances are great but the character Marial isn’t as enjoyable to watch anymore as she once was. Before it was a joy to see her snarky comments and her fierceness was a joy to watch but now it seem as if she is getting angrier and it isn’t always the most enjoyable to watch.
Episode 7: A Pox on Hope
A shock revelation as Catherine and Peter are growing closer, their relationship is no longer hatred and a joy to watch something bloom between these two even though we are aware it will hurt Leo's feelings. Peter is true to his word and science has been brought into the palace against the churches wishes. The new invention of the printing press is brought in and is a hit until it is used to mock the Emperor and Empress. It is nice to see Peter in a new light and being optimistic and less violent. He appears to have grown up and starting to become a leader this is due to help from his wife. It is nice to see this new side of Peter and a joy to watch but it doesn’t last for long.
It is clear to see that Orlo is a changed man since his adventure to the front line. He keeps mentioning what happened as for him it is a huge moment in his life but everyone is tired of hearing about it. He also appears to be scarred by what he saw and the actions he had to do.
Vlad is an underrated character; Hynes always puts on a sweet performance. Hynes always lights up the room when in a scene and this episode his character gets his moment to shine. Vlad has pox, an illness that was around in that time and deadly. Wish we got to see more of Vlad before this episode. The church is extremely unhappy as science is in the palace and Catherine wants to introduce a new kind of treatment to help fight the pox. Its interesting to see how much influence the church has on Peter.
The characters are changing and we got to see more of the side-line characters. This was an emotional episode especially when it comes to the character Vlad. Some great performances as the tension is rising for Catherine to make her mark and move her plans forward if she is going to take control.
Episode 8: Meatballs at the Dacha
Plans are heating up to get more allies on side, including the military. However, Leo is completely heartbroken, he is missing Catherine and doesn’t like the fact he has to share her. Leo struggles so much with this he attempts to leave so Marial tells him the truth. Again, we see Marial going behind Catherine's back, doing what she promised not to.
Peter and Catherine go to Sweden and try to end the war. Seeing the two Kings meet there are many similarities which is hilarious to watch. Ending this war is a difficult thing to do and the two kings’ squabble like children when they can’t get their own way. There is sweet moment between Catherine and Peter at the fountain where they talk about Peter's father. Fanning and Hoult are great in scenes together which are a lot more emotional, these moments are precious to watch and showcase how far these characters have come since the start.
Catherine is very headstrong in this episode; she is becoming a leader and is successful. She is taking attributes from Marial as she is becoming feisty but it is working. As a result, this episode showcases leadership but also how close Catherine and Peter are slowing becoming and now this is a relationship which is pleasant to watch.
Episode 9: Love Hurts
This episode is gruesome and at time difficult to watch. A man gets killed and Peter decides it is time to find out who is after him and members of his court. The tortures are difficult to watch, especially the fingernails, very gruesome yet some of the tortures are funny especially the one where the brick may fall on you. It is the waiting which is quite amusing.
Catherine is under pressure and Peter declares his love for Catherine. This overall is a fantastic episode, Catherine's final speech is moving and Fanning is amazing in her delivery. We feel the emotion she is trying to bring across and her speech is incredibly moving. The hope to move forward something we all can relate to personally and socially. Moving forward is all we can do when situations get difficult, we hope to move forward to become better people and a better society. A speech that can be applied today.
Also, in this episode, we see another side to Orlo. He can't stop talking about the man he killed but we also see a jealous side. He has a verbal fight with Leo and he can’t trust him. While Grigor's personality is becoming darker as if he is suffering from depression. It is interesting to see how the friendship has changed between Grigor and Peter and what is may become in the final episode.
This episode sets up nicely for the final episode, with very good performances. The intensity is rising to see what is going to happen in the final instalment.
Episode 10: The Beaver's Nose
Catherine discovers she is pregnant but it is also her birthday. Peter is trying all he can do to make Catherine express her feelings for him and say I love you back. Yet Catherine wants Peter dead by the end of the day. Not everything goes to plan and we are left on a sort of cliff-hanger at the end, which makes us hope that there will be another season to answer all our questions and to see what will happen next.
Everyone discovers Catherine plans and their reactions are interesting, it is interesting to see who really supports Peter and who supports the future of Russia. However, Peter tries to kill Leo and in the end we are unsure of Leo's outcome. The goodbye between Catherine and Leo was sweet yet unclear, it also felt a little rushed. It may have been cut short as it was nearing the end of the episode. Yet these two characters had such a strong and loving relationship it felt rushed their goodbye and wasn’t clear what was going to happen next.
At the heart, this episode is all about playing games, we discover Catherine and Peter playing mental and emotional games with each other. Each one is trying to get the upper hand onto the other. Both want to win and will go to extraordinary lengths to get or keep what they want/have. Unfortunately, we don’t get to see who wins, there is resilience between all characters to keep fighting for change and what they think is right and now we must wait. Hopefully, we will get an answer on the outcome. Performances were strong in this final episode yet Fox's performance still isn’t as enjoyable as it once was in episode 1, it is clear now her character only cares about getting her status back and doesn’t show much empathy or understanding towards other characters, but with this in mind all performances were strong throughout, making this final episode in this season very enjoyable to watch.
