In Cold Blood

First and foremost, I am not a history buff. I know what was taught when I was in high school and little else. That said, I am judging this pilot episode of "The Tudors" based on its artistic merits and entertainment value alone, not its historical content. Those looking for comparisons to what actually happened are better off looking elsewhere.

"The Tudors" is one of many Showtime series to pop up recently in the network's attempt to become the next HBO. Some series have proved successful ("Masters of Horror", "Weeds", "Dexter") while others have floundered ("Huff", "The Underground"). Judging from the pilot episode, "The Tudors" falls somewhere in between quality wise. It's not groundbreaking like "Masters of Horror" or particularly original like "Dexter", but it's more competently written and produced than previous network dramas like "Huff". The main problem so far lies with the acting. While Jonathan Rhys Meyers doesn't leave a strong impression as King Henry VIII. He comes across as simply reciting lines rather than giving a performance. It appears as if he's playing King Henry VIII in a play rather than a television series. His co-stars fare much better. Sam Neill as Cardinal Thomas Wolsey is strong as always, underplaying nicely when necessary. If there is a reason to keep watching the series, it's Maria Doyle Kennedy as Queen Katherine. She portrays the role of the wife with just the right amount of compassion and frustration. It will be interesting to see how her relationship with Henry changes throughout the next few episodes, if I can stand to sit through them.

My rating: 5/10

"The Tudors" S1E1 throws viewers headfirst into the opulent and treacherous world of King Henry VIII's court. This premiere episode masterfully sets the stage for a series filled with political intrigue, passionate romances, and ruthless power struggles, all against the backdrop of a lavishly recreated historical setting.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers commands the screen as the young and charismatic King Henry VIII, capturing his vigor, ambition, and insatiable appetite for power and pleasure. The episode establishes the key players in Henry's court, including his devoted wife Catherine of Aragon (Maria Doyle Kennedy) and the influential Cardinal Wolsey (Sam Neill), hinting at the complex relationships and alliances that will shape the course of his reign.

The episode wastes no time in establishing the central conflict: Henry's desire for a male heir and his growing infatuation with the alluring Anne Boleyn (Natalie Dormer). The seeds of rebellion and religious upheaval are also sown, as whispers of discontent with the Catholic Church begin to spread.

The production values are exceptional, with lavish costumes, opulent sets, and stunning cinematography that transport viewers to the grandeur of Tudor England. The episode's pacing is brisk, keeping you engaged with its blend of political intrigue, courtly drama, and personal conflicts.

Overall, "The Tudors" S1E1 is a captivating and promising start to a series that promises to delve into the tumultuous reign of one of England's most iconic monarchs. Its compelling characters, lavish visuals, and intriguing plotlines make it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and period pieces.