Is The Great Worth Watching On Netflix? Find Out!

Hey guys! Ever find yourself scrolling through Netflix, endlessly searching for something actually good to watch? I know I have! Today, we're diving deep into a show that might just end your search: The Great. But the big question is, is it really worth your precious binge-watching time? Let's break it down.

What's "The Great" All About?

At its heart, The Great is a historical dramedy (yes, that's a thing!) loosely based on the rise of Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia. I say "loosely" because, well, historical accuracy takes a backseat to sharp wit, outrageous situations, and some seriously dark humor. Think of it as a period piece with a very modern sensibility. Elle Fanning stars as Catherine, a young, idealistic Prussian princess who arrives in Russia to marry Emperor Peter, played by Nicholas Hoult. Catherine quickly discovers that Peter is an immature, cruel, and utterly incompetent ruler. Instead of accepting her fate, she decides to... well, let's just say she decides to take matters into her own hands. And that's where the fun begins!

Why You Might Love It

The Great isn't your typical stuffy historical drama. It's bold, irreverent, and laugh-out-loud funny. If you appreciate shows that don't take themselves too seriously and aren't afraid to push boundaries, this might be right up your alley. The writing is incredibly sharp, filled with witty banter and clever political commentary. The performances are also top-notch. Elle Fanning shines as Catherine, portraying her transformation from naive bride to ambitious empress with nuance and charisma. Nicholas Hoult is equally brilliant as Peter, managing to be both repulsive and strangely endearing. The supporting cast is also fantastic, adding layers of depth and humor to the story.

The Humor

Let's talk about the humor in The Great. This isn't your polite, understated British humor. This is dark, often absurd, and sometimes downright shocking humor. The show doesn't shy away from depicting the brutality and absurdity of 18th-century court life. It uses humor to highlight the power struggles, the hypocrisy, and the sheer madness of the Russian aristocracy. If you're easily offended or prefer your historical dramas to be strictly accurate, The Great might not be for you. But if you enjoy a good dose of dark humor and appreciate a show that's willing to take risks, you'll probably find The Great hilarious.

The Characters

The characters in The Great are complex, flawed, and utterly fascinating. Catherine is the heart of the show, and her journey from idealistic innocent to ruthless leader is compelling to watch. Peter is a fascinating study in contradictions. He's cruel, selfish, and often ridiculous, but he's also strangely charismatic and even, at times, sympathetic. The supporting characters, like Catherine's loyal maid Marial (Phoebe Fox) and Peter's eccentric aunt Elizabeth (Belinda Bromilow), add even more depth and richness to the story. Each character has their own motivations, their own secrets, and their own unique quirks.

Potential Drawbacks

Okay, so The Great sounds pretty awesome, right? But it's not for everyone. Here are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

Historical Inaccuracy

As I mentioned earlier, The Great takes a lot of liberties with history. If you're a stickler for historical accuracy, you might find the show frustrating. The show's creator, Tony McNamara, has been upfront about the fact that he's more interested in telling a compelling story than in adhering to historical facts. He's described the show as "an anti-historical ride" and has said that he's willing to sacrifice accuracy for the sake of entertainment. So, if you're looking for a meticulously researched historical drama, The Great isn't it.

The Dark Humor

The dark humor in The Great can be a turn-off for some viewers. The show deals with some pretty heavy themes, like violence, betrayal, and political intrigue, and it often uses humor to lighten the mood. But if you're not a fan of dark humor, you might find the show offensive or disturbing. The show also contains some graphic content, including violence and sexual situations, so it's definitely not for the faint of heart.

It's Not For Everyone

Ultimately, whether or not you'll enjoy The Great depends on your personal taste. If you're looking for a lighthearted, feel-good comedy, this isn't it. But if you appreciate sharp writing, dark humor, and complex characters, you might just fall in love with The Great. It's a show that's not afraid to be bold, irreverent, and a little bit crazy.

So, Is It Worth Watching?

Alright, let's get to the million-dollar question: is The Great worth watching on Netflix? In my humble opinion, absolutely! If you're looking for something different, something that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even gasp a little, then give The Great a try. Just be prepared for a wild ride. The Great shines with its irreverent humor, stellar performances, and engaging (though historically loose) storyline, making it a standout choice.

The Great offers a refreshing twist on the period drama genre. Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult deliver outstanding performances, elevating the witty and often outrageous script. The show masterfully balances comedy with darker themes, creating a viewing experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. However, those seeking historical accuracy may find the show's liberties off-putting. Ultimately, The Great is a bold and unconventional series that is sure to captivate viewers who appreciate sharp writing and a unique perspective.

If you're still on the fence, here's my advice: watch the first couple of episodes and see if it's your cup of tea. If you're not hooked by the end of the second episode, then maybe it's not for you. But if you are hooked, then get ready for a binge-watching experience like no other. You will love the satirical wit, the outstanding performances, and the sheer audacity of the narrative. Whether you're a history buff or simply a fan of great television, The Great offers something for everyone.

Where Can You Watch "The Great?"

You can catch The Great on Hulu! While it's not currently available on Netflix in many regions, Hulu is the place to go to dive into the chaotic and hilarious world of Catherine the Great. So, if you're ready to experience a historical dramedy that breaks all the rules, head over to Hulu and start watching The Great today!

So, there you have it! My take on The Great. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to re-watch my favorite episodes. Huzzah!