‘Mesmerising’ Channel 4 period drama based on most dangerous woman to ever live
The Channel 4 period drama has earned a perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score – and it’s based on the life of one of the most controversial and infamous queen’s to ever live
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The show stars Samantha Morton in the lead and viewers are ‘completely obsessed’(Image: IMDB)
A ‘mesmerising’ period drama has received a perfect score – from critics and audiences – with viewers saying the series ‘pulls you in from the very start’ and compels you to ‘binge-watch’ its episodes.
Streaming free on Channel 4, the historical drama is based on one of the most dangerous, controversial and infamous women in history – and the actress portraying her on the show has garnered glowing reviews from all quarters for her performance.
Created by Justin Haythe and inspired by Leonie Frieda’s 2004 non-fiction work Catherine de Medici: Renaissance Queen of France – the dramatised biographical period piece has achieved a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Serpent Queen features Samantha Morton in the titular role of Catherine de’ Medici, the 16th century Queen of France, with the actress leaving both critics and viewers stunned by her ‘truly spectacular’ portrayal in the show.
Speaking to Vogue about taking up the role and why she connected with the character, Morton shared: “She’s almost vilified in history as this very dark figure, and she did do some very brutal things in her life. But I think that when men have made tough decisions throughout history, whether [as] the ruler of an army or a country, they’re often glorified. But when women did the same thing, they were called witches, or harridans, or whores of Babylon.
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It’s the perfect period drama series for your next binge-watching spree(Image: IMDB)
“I loved the fact that she was so fiercely intelligent. For me, it was really interesting to play this kind of kingpin character that is often reserved for men; this incredibly powerful woman who has vulnerabilities and flaws and all these facets that made her so complex and interesting. That’s what always stretches you as an actor.”
The Serpent Queen takes a delves deeper into the life of Catherine de’ Medici, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into one of history’s most powerful queen’s world, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The series premiered in September 2022 and went on for two seasons. Starring Morton in the lead, the Harlots star is accompanied by Liv Hill, Minnie Driver, Amrita Acharia, Barry Atsma, Ruby Bentall, Enzo Cilenti, Sennia Nanua, Kiruna Stamell, and Nicholas Burns, alongside a broader ensemble cast.
The programme has achieved a flawless rating on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, with one critic writing: “[The Serpent Queen] distinguishes itself by rinsing away the cosmetics of royal etiquette and self-serious machination with bracing wit. Catherine may have been a mean woman, but she devised ways to enjoy herself – as should we.”
One impressed reviewer was completely taken by Morton’s acting: “At the end of the day, this is Samantha Morton’s world, and we’re all just living in it. I, for one, am very okay with that.”
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The ‘masterpiece’ series is streaming free on Channel 4(Image: IMDB)
Meanwhile, one critic heaped lavish praise on both Morton and Hill’s portrayal of Catherine de’ Medici: “It’s a delicate balance to strike, but Morton and Hill are both up to it, in a pair of excellent, poker-faced performances that set the tone for the entire cast.”
Viewers have been left equally captivated, with one saying: “Phenomenal! Samantha Morten is mesmerizing to watch. Great acting especially when she speaks into the camera. The plots get thicker and it’s crazy to watch how she gets out of dilemmas, fantastic to watch. Most enjoyable. The scenery is stunning.”
Another fan of the series said: “Engaging from the start. Having watched every other show I decided to give this a shot. From the very first I was hooked. Samantha of course was the draw. But it starts with her younger self. She is quite amazing as well. I binge watched and now have to wait each week. Best show I’ve come across since Game of Thrones. Pulls you in from the start and makes you want to know everything!”
One audience review on Rotten Tomatoes reads: “5/5 and a few extra stars for the performance: Morton / Hill are delivering a killing! Funny entertaining smart and even a bit naughty all that without the need for violence and sex. Marvellous show – spick and span!”
A user review posted to IMDB reads: “Wow. Just an amazing program. Had me glued from start to finished loved the red herrings!! The lead actress did an amazing job, the whole cast was amazing. I hope we get something else like this soon. I love watching history programs like this. The art work behind it was stunning. Thank you to the crew!!”
Morton’s performance also drew high praise from viewers: “Wonderfully Entertaining!!! I enjoy this show so much and find it very entertaining. Samantha Morton is one of the best actresses of our time and fits into this era so perfectly. The twists and turns this show keeps taking is incredible and the costumes and landscapes are amazing. I hope it continues to bring more and more jaw dropping moments for years to come!!!”
The Serpent Queen is available to stream for free on Channel 4.