The Great Season 1 Story:-
Presenting itself with a playful asterisk as “an occasionally true story,” Hulu’s “The Great” liberates itself from the typical constraints of period dramas, opting for a more accurate vibe rather than a strictly faithful retelling of the tumultuous period in Russian history. This period spans the six months from when a 19-year-old Catherine (executive producer Elle Fanning) married the new emperor Peter (Nicholas Hoult) to the moment she orchestrated his overthrow, seizing the throne for herself.
Movie Ratings
| Release Date | 15 April 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Biography, Comedy, Drama, History |
| Episodes | 10 |
| Cast | Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Fox, Sacha Dhawan, Charity Wakefield, Gwilym Lee, Adam Godley, Douglas Hodge, Belinda Bromilow, Richard Pyros, Bayo Gbadamosi, Sebastian de Souza |
| Director | Colin Bucksey, Bert, Bertie, Ben Chessell, Geeta V. Patel, Matt Shakman |
| Writer | Tony McNamara |
| Cinematography | Anthony Boys, Billy Sneddon, Edel McDonnell, Nicolas Gaster |
| Music | Nathan Barr |
| Producer | Tony McNamara, Elle Fanning, Marian Macgowan, Brittany Kahan Ward, Doug Mankoff, Andrew Spaulding, Josh Kesselman, Ron West, Matt Shakman, Nick O’Hagan, Dean O’Toole |
| Production | Thruline Entertainment, Echo Lake Entertainment, Lewellen Pictures, Macgowan Films, Piggy Ate Roast Beef Productions, MRC, Civic Center Media |
| Certificate | 18+ |
Crafted by Tony McNamara, co-writer of “The Favourite,” “The Great” effortlessly straddles the line between period drama and slapstick comedy. Catherine, Peter, and their cohorts engage in scathingly funny banter, with punchlines as sharp and swift as Peter’s temper, portrayed with dexterous absurdity by Hoult. The production design and costuming create a sumptuous yet harsh portrayal of the Russian court, balancing lavish feasts with royal tantrums and literal backstabbing. The series embraces racial diversity among its cast of characters, departing from the typical homogeneity of period dramas to cast the best actors for each role.
While the series occasionally overindulges in gratuitous sex scenes and predictable bursts of comedic violence, its relentless feminism gives Catherine a modern edge that occasionally borders on anachronistic. Nevertheless, “The Great” offers a wickedly entertaining blend of historical fiction, laying bare the flaws of aristocracy, the seeds of rebellion, and the perils of leaders surrounded by sycophants.
As Catherine navigates courtly intrigue and Peter’s volatile behavior, she matures rapidly, aided by a motley crew of allies including Peter’s advisor, her lover, and her sharp-tongued servant. Hoult delivers a standout performance as the impulsive and cruel Peter, revealing the vulnerability beneath his tyrannical facade. Meanwhile, Fanning shines as Catherine, portraying her transformation from naive newcomer to formidable leader with remarkable depth and nuance.
Despite its occasional flaws, “The Great” is anchored by Fanning’s increasingly confident portrayal of Catherine. As she grapples with Peter’s whims and strives to implement her progressive agenda, Catherine evolves into a formidable force in her own right. With each subtle gesture and cutting remark, Fanning captures Catherine’s journey from reluctant bride to iconic ruler, cementing her status as one of the series’ greatest assets.
