Despite the many bitter and petty reviews complaining about Anne being played by a black woman (most of which are reactionary more than anything and probably haven't even watched the whole series), this was actually a series with brilliant potential. Visually it was beautiful, although I did feel the music left a little to be desired, and certain parts were edited a little strangely.
The main actress captured a sombre and proud version of Anne, forced to navigate the unforgiving landscape of Tudor England. I think the characterisation could have made her more sympathetic, but I felt it was more true to reflect the ruthlessness required for a woman to survive in the Royal Court.
My main critique is the series' portrayal of Henry, who they made out to be weak and undefined. It is funny that I've seen few comments on his poor characterisation in this, despite the fact we know a lot more about him than Anne (since so much of her life was erased from history after her death).
I think the series should have based itself around Anne's time in the Tower, since that was easily the strongest and most emotional part of the series. Having her reflect on her life, her decisions, would have made her a lot more relatable and sympathetic throughout the entire series, and not just in the final episode.
What I'd say is give this series a go, it's by no means the best series telling Anne's story, but it doesn't deserve the dire reviews it has been given.
The main actress captured a sombre and proud version of Anne, forced to navigate the unforgiving landscape of Tudor England. I think the characterisation could have made her more sympathetic, but I felt it was more true to reflect the ruthlessness required for a woman to survive in the Royal Court.
My main critique is the series' portrayal of Henry, who they made out to be weak and undefined. It is funny that I've seen few comments on his poor characterisation in this, despite the fact we know a lot more about him than Anne (since so much of her life was erased from history after her death).
I think the series should have based itself around Anne's time in the Tower, since that was easily the strongest and most emotional part of the series. Having her reflect on her life, her decisions, would have made her a lot more relatable and sympathetic throughout the entire series, and not just in the final episode.
What I'd say is give this series a go, it's by no means the best series telling Anne's story, but it doesn't deserve the dire reviews it has been given.