If you appreciate history, especially anything related to the British monarchy, The Crown is for you.
The Netflix show is simply brilliant – worth more than the 5 stars it currently possesses.
So far, season 1 has delivered ten episodes of nothing but intrigue, brilliant oratory, and an incredibly accurate portrayal of the inside drama of what it truly means to be a British royal.
It sets out to depict the life of the royal family shortly before the death of the then King George VI.
King George was propelled into power after his brother King Edward VIII (known to his family as David) abdicated, choosing “love”, as he would put it, before what was seen as his royal duty.
King George’s death meant that a young princess Elizabeth, on official assignment in Kenya – accompanied by her husband, prince Phillip – ascended the throne, at a moment’s notice.
It’s the kind of drama that in some instances leaves a lump in your throat as you observe the wrestle of trying to lead a “normal life”, yet it is not possible.
The new queen cannot just take the kids for a walk, or help them with their homework – in fact, she is hardly pictured doing anything with her kids throughout the first season, except when they follow her around the house in awe of the new crown she practices to wear before her coronation.
If anything, the show is incredible in portraying what most of us would view as “the other side of the curtain”.
It brings a humanness to the people millions observe as “the elite”.
It is an outstanding insight into British tradition. And very importantly, it gives a glimpse into how the rest of the Commonwealth – much of the world really – was influenced by a small island.
If you’re looking for something to watch over the next few weeks, this is the show for you.