This show is excellent, covering a lengthy period in just ten episodes, from Elizabeth's (Claire Foy's) 1947 wedding to Prince Philip (Matt Smith) to 1955, and does so effortlessly. While I loved most everything about the show, I will mention my squabbles: during Elizabeth's coronation, though some of the focus is on her, they resort to the voice over of her uncle, who abdicated the thrown when she was ten, David (Alex Jennings), which is a poor choice and almost ruins the precious, rare moment. There is also plenty of focus on Princess Margaret's (Vanessa Kirby's) romance with the divorced commoner Peter Townsend (Ben Miles) who works for the family and while it is realistic and tastefully done, I wish they focus more on foreign affairs, such as the new Prime Minister's difficulties with Egypt in the final episode confused me.
But the performances were excellent, with John Lithgow shining as Winston Churchill and Foy fully deserves every award bestowed to her as getting under the Queen's skin. However, though both Victoria Hamilton as the Queen Mother and Matt Smith should be given far more scenes as they are great in their roles while Greg Wise (as Philip's uncle) is wasted in his. Philip especially struggles in his role, feeling second-rate, without a purpose.
But the costumes and scenery shine with every detail sought after. I especially found it interesting when Princess Margaret, in Africa, wanted to call her sister and the whole process that was without cell phones.
My favorite episode, also the far saddest, is the fourth episode when the deadly smog took over the city of London for five days, a dreadful experience, but it combined the conflicting roles of Elizabeth, as both queen and member of a family.
This show is a must-watch and will be completely enjoyed. Grade: A-
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