“While watching a show, we assume that it’s fictional”

“N ot based on true events”. As a viewer, a statement like that would read ridiculous. When watching a new show, we run with the assumption that it’s fictional, unless it’s specified that it’s based on true events. The Crown is an intimate family drama show that has presented a romanticised story of a family which we have only known of from curated articles and what the news has showcased. Show writers have taken inspiration from those and given to us a wonderful show that fictionally and creatively depicts a family with its own internal dialogue and interpersonal relationships. The opening ceremony sequence of the 2012 Olympics in London had James Bond escorting the late Queen Elizabeth to the arena in a helicopter, and they then skydived to their entrance. There was artistic fictional writing executed there. No one had to specify to the viewers that the Queen didn’t actually jump off a helicopter.

Just like The Passion of the Christ (2004) was an evocative movie for Pope John Paul, The Crown has a similar effect on viewers. But, neither may reflect the truth, they are just great artistic works.

“Show writers give us a show that fictionally and creatively depicts a family”

VIDUSHII SHRIVASTAVA