History Meets Fantasy — Review Of My Lady Jane (2024)
My fondness for historical dramas knows no bounds and you can bet I'll be on the search for those I haven't watched yet. So I found My Lady Jane (2024) and after binge-watching all eight episodes over the weekend, I've dubbed it a real treat and the best show recently.
Historical dramas that strive for accuracy are fantastic but even better are those that add in a little fiction or fantasy to sweeten the harsh realities of those times.
Historically, Lady Jane Grey was King Edward VI's cousin with a claim to the throne but she's not directly in line. Princess Mary and Princess Elizabeth were the rightful heirs. Rather than let either of these two princesses take the throne, Edward VI named Lady Jane Grey as his successor. She was known as the queen with the shortest reign in England, ruling for only nine days! You can imagine what must have happened on the ninth day—she was beheaded.
The creator of this series, adapting a novel of the same name by Jodi Meadows, turns this heartbreaking history into a captivating one where the audience watches a beautiful, fierce and courageous woman defy societal limitations of her time to rise to the throne. The question is — can she keep the throne longer than nine days or will her political rivals end her before?
Review
Historical drama is one of my favourite genres, especially if it's based on the Tudor era. I like that this series is fictionalised, giving us a glimpse into the writer's/creator's imagination of how history might have unfolded differently. The plot is great and the storytelling is even better.
I dubbed this show the best one I've seen recently because there are no dull moments from the first episode to the last. The opening scene immediately captures your attention and draws you in. You already know it's going to be a funny, captivating and action-packed series.
The eight-episode arc focuses on romance, political intrigues within the British monarchy, betrayals, high-stakes dramas and a fantasy element that elevates the series, making it a joy to watch. The touch of fantasy involves an English society where Verity (humans) and Ethians (shapeshifters) coexist and as expected, discrimination is rife among them. The humans consider themselves better, and oppress and hunt after the Ethians.
The use of a narrator, modern music and language (profanities) makes this series captivating. It's like the olden times wrapped in a bit of the modern so you're not put off or bored.
The cast are amazing and their performances outstanding right down to the smallest character. They embodied their characters so well that I ended up liking those that I should despise. I mean the villains, especially Queen Mary (played by Kate O’Flynn) and Lord Seymour (played by Dominic Cooper). They are fun to watch and their ‘evilness’ is hilarious in an endearing way.
Emily Bader played Lady (Queen) Jane wonderfully. This is my first time seeing this young actress and I'm hoping to see her in more films. Jane Grey is a character whose intelligence, resourcefulness and stubbornness is balanced by her kind heart. She is likable and I rooted for her to stay on the throne longer than nine days. Her chemistry with lead actor, Edward Bluemel is palpable and scorching.
Also, I'm impressed with Anna Chancellor's acting and role as Jane’s mother, Lady Frances Grey. She's audacious, funny and commands every scene she appears in.
The cinematography is stunning, showcasing many lovely landscapes. Sadly, this series has been cancelled. It ends on a cliffhanger that would have been the beginning of a captivating second season. I'm hoping another network or production company picks up this series. If not, adieu.
Overall, My Lady Jane is a captivating historical fantasy that is worth watching again and again. It's one of those shows you can't get enough of and wish for more. I'd rate it 4 stars out of 5.
Thank you for visiting my blog.
Images are screenshots from the series
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What a beautiful review! Ruling for just nine days, that's interesting. I love movies that aren't dull but hooks the viewers to the end. This sure would be a lovely watch.
Imagine a queen ruling for just nine days and killed thereafter. Those were harsh times! Yes, this series is very interesting. You'll love it.
I thought I was the only one who genuinely loved historical dramas. I've enjoyed quite a few and I'm always on the hunt for more. The enthusiasm with which you talk about this one makes me know that it will be a cinematic piece worth investing time on. Thank you for this beautiful recommendation.🌺
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You're not alone in loving historical dramas. The setting, costumes and even language make them so captivating! Indeed this series is worth watching and I'm hoping you get the chance to enjoy it as much as I did. Many thanks for your visit and support!