Watch Catherine the Great

Catherine the Great is a 2019 historical drama miniseries that aired on Sky Atlantic (UK) starring the legendary Helen Mirren in the lead role. The series, set in the 18th century, explores the life and reign of Catherine the Great, who is remembered as one of the most powerful and longest-reigning female rulers in history.

The show unravels Catherine's journey from her arrival in Russia as a young German princess, to her rise to power as the Empress of Russia, and her personal struggles and romantic liaisons. It delves into her politics, her military alliances, her cultural pursuits, and her complicated relationship with her husband, Tsar Peter III.

The series opens with the arrival of the 14-year-old Sophia of Anhalt-Zerbst, who later becomes Catherine, in Russia to marry Peter III, whom she has never met. Right from the start, the show's production values - the costumes, the set design, the music - transport you to the period and make you feel like you're witnessing history unfold.

As Catherine navigates her way through the treacherous waters of the Russian court, viewers get to see the many sides of her personality - her wit, her intelligence, her cunning, her ambition, and her vulnerabilities. Helen Mirren's performance is nothing short of stellar. She effortlessly captures Catherine's regal demeanor, her charm, her charisma, and her fears. Her nuanced portrayal of the empress adds a layer of complexity to her character, making her more relatable, and her story more engrossing.

But the show isn't just about Catherine. It also explores the lives of the people who surround her, including Peter III (played by Jason Clarke), Catherine's ambitious lover, Grigory Potemkin (played by Jason Clarke), and the other members of the court. The show packs a punch with its stellar supporting cast which includes the likes of Gina McKee, Richard Roxburgh, Rory Kinnear, and Kevin McNally, to name a few.

The series also highlights the political climate of the time - war with the Ottoman Empire, the conflict with Poland, and the war of succession in Sweden. The political intrigue and the machinations of the court make for gripping viewing, and the show manages to balance the historical events with the personal lives of the characters beautifully.

As the series progresses, Catherine develops her own vision for Russia, one that's rooted in modernity, enlightenment, and progress. She champions science and culture, and tries to push Russia towards becoming a European superpower. But her efforts are not always met with approval, and she faces opposition from various quarters.

One of the standout elements of the show is the chemistry between Mirren and Clarke. Their relationship is rocky, complicated, and at times, volatile. The show explores the dynamics of the marriage, the infidelities, and the power struggles in a way that feels real and raw. Clarke is masterful in his portrayal of Peter III, bringing a sense of vulnerability and humanity to the character.

Overall, Catherine the Great is a masterful series that blends history, drama, and intrigue in a seamless manner. Its stellar cast, stunning production values, and gripping storytelling make it a must-watch for lovers of historical dramas. The show is complex, entertaining, and thought-provoking, and it leaves you with a sense of admiration for the legendary ruler who changed the course of Russian history.

Catherine the Great is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between October 3, 2019 and on Sky Atlantic (UK)