Coming on the heels of The Tudors, Showtime’s successful dramatization of King Henry VIII’s life, The Borgias had big shoes to fill, but it managed to establish itself as a legit heir rather quickly.
The Borgias tells the story of how Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia, who successfully outmaneuvers every other Cardinal to be elected Pope Alexander, rules the Vatican in the 15th century and deals with the position’s demands and requirements.
This new Pope, however, is nothing like what we’re used to. He has two sons and a daughter who are either positioned or bartered in order to increase the power and influence of the Borgia family. The mother of his children lives in luxury while the Pope finds a new mistress. And all this is widely known both in Italy and abroad.
Political intrigue is commonplace in Rome, littered with the purchasing of favors, assassinations, advancements, and the like. Furthermore, the Pope’s influence extends to the whole of Europe, given that he alone holds the power to crown and dethrone kings and queens, together with the unique power to excommunicate dissidents.
As Pope Alexander, the great Jeremy Irons is fantastic in a role that seems custom tailored for him, but the entire cast does a very good job. The writing is inspired and focused, and the first season felt fresh and rich, making me look forward to the next one.
The Bottom Line: a good show especially if you like “historical” reenactments.
Grade: 8
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