Mary & George: A Gripping Tale of Ambition, Power, and Delicious Deception

Finally, the wait is over, folks! Mary & George has crossed the Atlantic to grace screens on this side of the world. While lucky viewers in the UK were treated to its gripping narrative last month on Sky, audiences in the US can now dive into this psychosexual drama as it premieres today on Starz (April 5).

The buzz surrounding this show has been everything everyone has been talking about on the internet since its premiere. And now, viewers on both sides of the pond can immerse themselves in the audacious true-ish story of Mary Villiers (Juliane Moore) and her son George (Nicholas Galitzine).

And we say true-ish because, like many shows based on real-life events, Mary & George takes some creative liberties to deliver a compelling historical narrative steeped in ambition, power dynamics, and intricate drama. They’re not aiming to be a history lesson; they’re here to entertain. But fear not, they’re still keeping it real with the known historical events. It’s like a delicious mix of fact and fiction that’ll keep you glued to your seat from start to finish.

But we digress, inspired by Benjamin Woolley’s novel The King’s Assassin, Mary & George opens in 1592 as Mary Villiers gives birth to her second son, George. This crucial moment begins to weave the threads of a lethal tale of ambition, manipulation, power, codependency, desire, and intrigue. George’s position as the second son, bereft of inheritance prospects, sets the stage for a story of familial strife and individual identity.

As the narrative progresses, Mary’s aspirations for George clash with his personal desires, particularly his affection for a serving girl named Jenny (Emily Fairn) and the exploration of his own sexuality. The show skillfully navigates themes of social hierarchy, manipulation, and strategic maneuvering, depicting Mary’s efforts to secure her son’s future amidst the financial challenges and social pressures of the time.

The story takes an intriguing turn as Mary orchestrates George’s education in France, exposing him to a world of refinement and sexual dynamics. Upon returning to England, George becomes entangled in his mother’s ambitious schemes, including her elaborate plans to involve him sexually with King James VI and I (Tony Curran). The portrayal of England’s queer ruler and the complexities within his court adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the intersection of personal desires and political ambitions.

From the outset, Mary & George plunges viewers into a tumultuous world filled with political machinations and yes, a lot of sex. The narrative wastes no time in immersing us in a web of power dynamics, familial bonds, and the pursuit of personal agency in a historical setting full of intrigue and complexity, often making us question the characters’ ambiguous morality. But you know what? That’s one of the strong points of this show, all these people are despicable and yet you can’t help but root for them.

Mary’s relentless ambition and George’s desire to navigate court life while grappling with his own identity and the power he comes to wield create a tension-filled atmosphere that will keep you hooked. Truly, from the very first episode to its last, Mary & George is going to grab you and not let go. It’s a show that exudes so much confidence with its bold storytelling that it’s impossible to stop watching.

Mary & George is a raw, sensual, and captivating journey filled with intrigue and power games. As we’ve shared, the show fearlessly explores themes of ambition, manipulation, and desire, depicting Mary and George’s rise to power in a manner that is both cruel and deliciously satisfying.

This mother-and-son duo shows how far people will go to secure power and influence. Nicholas Galitzine and Julianne Moore deliver splendid performances, with Moore shining as Mary, the gold-digging socialite who orchestrates intricate schemes with finesse and wicked perfection.

Moore’s portrayal of Mary, a character unapologetically willing to manipulate and exploit, adds such depth to the narrative that she practically commands the screen. Her control over George and the circumstances they face is captivating, showcasing her determination to overcome challenges and secure her position. Moore’s Mary is a masterclass in layered performance. She embodies Mary’s ambition, wit, and manipulative prowess with nuance, making her a captivating character to watch.

On the other hand, Galitzine’s portrayal of George, a character grappling with his identity and ambitions, adds depth to the show’s exploration of sexuality and power dynamics. Watching George navigate his own challenges, particularly with Robert Carr, the 1st Earl of Somerset (Laurie Davidson), in a battle for the king’s favors, and slowly but surely succumb to the allure of the power he wields is nothing short of mesmerizing. Galitzine really shines as George, especially as we see him go from this vulnerable, lovesick boy to the man who practically rules all of England.

And let’s not forget Tony Curran as King James VI and I. Curran masterfully embodies the monarch with all his quirks and eccentricities, bringing to life a character both deeply flawed and profoundly human. His depiction of the king’s broken side and vulnerability is nothing short of magnificent. Curran’s ability to navigate the complexities of King James’ personality contributes significantly to the show’s authenticity and emotional resonance, adding another layer of richness to this already captivating story.

The supporting cast adds layers of complexity to the story, with standout performances that highlight the duplicitous nature of court politics. The intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and power struggles keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the series’ seven-episode arc.

One of the standout aspects of Mary & George is its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes. The show doesn’t shy away from exploring LGBTQ+ storylines by presenting graphic scenes with authenticity and sensitivity, particularly in the exploration of the sexualities of George, the King, and even Mary. Creator D. C. Moore and directors Oliver Hermanus, Alex Winckler, and Florian Cossen infuse authenticity into these narratives, ensuring that despite their nature, intimate scenes are tastefully depicted and integral to the characters’ development. 

Mary & George is not just a historical drama; it’s a commentary on ambition, desire, and the lengths people will go to achieve their goals. The show’s queer narrative adds an extra layer of intrigue, presenting LGBTQ+ characters and themes in a way that feels genuine and relevant. It’s a testament to the appeal of period dramas intertwined with political intrigue and complex characters.

Mary & George is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas. It’s a compelling exploration of power dynamics, personal identity, and the complex relationships that shape our lives. It’s a show that leaves viewers craving more, thanks to its intriguing plot, well-crafted characters, and nuanced performances.

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Mary & George is now streaming on Starz in the US and Sky in the UK. Follow us on X and Instagram for all queer stuff!

Featured image: Image Courtesy of Starz.