Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story debuts on Netflix May 4th. This six-episode series is centered on Queen Charlotte’s rise to prominence and power. This Bridgerton-verse prequel tells the story of how the young Queen’s marriage to King George sparked both a great love story and a societal shift, creating the world of the Ton inherited by the characters in Bridgerton.
Bridgerton fans are always pumped about a new adventure. This one stands on its own for the most part. The story and writing do feel superficial at times with some episodes coming across more like filler than plot moving substance. Also, unless they are going to unpack a lot in season 2 – I assume there will be a S2 – much of the later story line is unnecessary.
Charlotte’s (India Amarteifio) name is on the door, but the meatier bits of these 6-episodes are about her husband, King George III (Corey Mylchreest). History has a lot to say about the Mad King, and he even has a humorous role in the hit HAMILTON musical. Though highly unlikable in the real world the writers here do a wonderful job of making this young king and future tyrant someone to care about.
This series is stunning visually with the most vibrant colors and scenery. The costumes are well thought out and bring an additional depth to the the characters and performances. Not to sound too odd, but I almost want to lick the screen and taste what I am seeing.
The story bounces back and forth between the later years of Charlotte and her younger days as queen. It is important to see where she started in order to understand where she is. The young Charlotte is played wonderfully by India Amarteifio. And I do mean wonderfully. She is animated, forceful, and oozes youthful persistence. The queen is 17 when we meet her and for those who have been around young women this age you know how incredibly smart and tenacious they can be. India brings that and more.
If you are wanting a lot of Bridgerton folk you will come away a tad disappointed. There are some characters sprinkled in from the earlier series, with a very nice addition of young Lady Agatha (Adjoa Andoh) and young Lady Violet. But for the most part it is all George and Charlotte. That is enough though. Charlotte is the focus regardless of what you want to learn about the Ton, ruling forces, and Lady Whistledown.
The Six-Episodes are easy to get through and a nice watch. In the Bridgerton world or remote this series has strong moments. It would be nice to have more than one season since Charlotte and George’s story is so intriguing. #QueenCharlotte #Bridgerton
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