‘Crown’ paints majestic portrait of young Queen Elizabeth II
Perhaps the most expensive TV series ever made, with a budget well over $100 million, Netflix’s “The Crown” is a sumptuous treat, a lavish costume drama with subtle performances and an astonishing attention to detail.
The 10-episode season from writer Peter Morgan (“The Queen,” “Frost/Nixon”) and producer Andrew Harries (“The Queen”) re-creates the early years in the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
It opens in 1947 with Philip (Matt Smith, “Doctor Who”) renouncing his Greek nationality and all foreign titles, paving the way for his marriage to a young Elizabeth (Claire Foy, “Wolf Hall”).
“I signed myself away,” he grouses.
“For one of the greatest prizes on earth,” Elizabeth teases.
Elizabeth’s father, King George VI (Jared Harris, “Mad Men”), adores his daughter, chain-smokes and is almost the last person to realize he is suffering from terminal lung cancer.
In his final months, he tries to prepare his daughter for the lifetime of duty before her.
After her father’s death, Elizabeth’s grandmother advises her to mourn not only him but also Elizabeth the private individual. From this day forward, the crown must always win.
Keeping a close eye on Buckingham Palace: Winston Churchill (John Lithgow, “3rd Rock from the Sun”), who becomes prime minister again.
“Crown’s” time jumps can be jarring. Within seconds of the royal wedding, Elizabeth is frolicking with children Charles and Anne.
If the lack of sizzle in Philip and Elizabeth’s relationship seems like a diplomatic gesture to the real-life couple, Princess Margaret’s (Vanessa Kirby, “The Frankenstein Chronicles”) complicated life more than makes up for it.
The attention to detail becomes addictive. As Elizabeth’s plane taxis into Nairobi, boys chase ostriches off the tarmac. Academy Award-winner Hans Zimmer’s (“Gladiator,” The Dark Knight”) score is the perfect touch, breaking both familiar and new.
Netflix has already ordered a second season of “The Crown.” According to Morgan, each season will cover roughly 10 years. We have a few seasons before Princess Diana pops up.
Expect “The Crown” to reign at the Emmys next fall. As it should.