Filmed from 2013 to 2017 in locations throughout Ireland and Canada, the historical-drama television series “Reign” is truly a hidden gem series. The show follows the life of Mary Queen of Scots, a dynamic, memorable leader in 16th-century European history. The series is a fictionalized drama, however, it remains mostly historically accurate.
I recently finished this series, and it was one of the best I’ve ever watched. Themes of love, sacrifice and power brew at French, Scottish and English court in this four-season series. It begins in 1557 with Mary’s return to the French court to wed Francis II, the future king of France. This alliance was meant to strengthen Scotland against the threat of its power-hungry neighbor England.
“Reign” reveals the influential yet taxing lives of monarchs. In an era of absolutist rulers, corruption and religious influences in government, ruling was far from an easy feat. It was interesting to learn about some of the earliest institutions of politics and those who shaped it.
While “Reign” is set nearly 500 years ago, the conflicts, character dynamics and even music has a modern outlook. It was comforting to see a portrayal of humans behaving in similar ways: showing that time may have passed, but many values have forever been relevant.
The characterization throughout the series is also notable. Mary began as a naive and inexperienced ruler, untouched by the manipulation that goes along with politics. Mary learns to never wait to be saved, but instead find security herself and fight for what is rightfully hers: the Scottish throne.
“Reign” also features other relevant monarchs of the time period, including Catherine de Medici and Queen Elizabeth I. I enjoyed the history and connection to multiple aspects of European rulers of the time.
The modern-pop soundtrack of the series also brings it to life. Music, in my opinion, can make or break a production, and in this case it completed “Reign.” This strengthens the modern-day relevancy in a series that takes place so long ago.
The series has an 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which simply speaks for itself. I would highly recommend watching “Reign,” available for streaming on Amazon Prime. I give “Reign” 5/5 stars.
