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This review was made possible by early screeners of Shardlake. Shardlake premieres on Hulu on Wednesday, May 1st.
If you’ve been craving some historical fiction or enjoyed shows like The Tudors or Becoming Elizabeth, look no further than Shardlake. This series delivers action, mystery, and a Renaissance vibe, all from an intriguing fresh perspective on the Tudor era. Based on the book series by C.J. Sansom, Shardlake masterfully blends elements of beloved historical drama with the intrigue of a detective mystery akin to Agatha Christie’s classics.
Set in England’s Tudor Era during Henry VIII’s reign, Shardlake follows the journey of protagonist Matthew Shardlake (Arthur Hughes), a barrister akin to today’s lawyer. When Thomas Cromwell (Sean Bean) summons Shardlake to investigate a peculiar murder at a monastery, the stage is set for a gripping tale. The story unfolds in the tumultuous period following England’s break from the Catholic Church, with monasteries expected to align with the new Church of England, the charge historically led by Cromwell. However, when a commissioner is gruesomely murdered, Shardlake’s investigation delves into a world of sinister clergymen and dark secrets.
One unique aspect of the series lies in its portrayal of characters facing physical hurdles. Despite being hunchbacked and afflicted with a severe spinal curvature and radial dysplasia affecting his right arm, Shardlake remains undeterred in his pursuit of justice. Alongside Jack Barak (Anthony Boyle), he navigates through a labyrinth of challenges, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Hughes delivers a standout performance as Shardlake, capturing the essence of a character with profound physical deformities through meticulous attention to detail in posture, mannerisms, and gait. His portrayal exudes sincerity and authenticity, drawing viewers into the character’s world with conviction. Additionally, Boyle’s portrayal of Jack Barak adds depth and complexity to the duo’s dynamic, enhancing the series’ narrative richness.
Shardlake’s production values excel in capturing the essence of the Tudor Era, with meticulous attention to detail evident in costuming, set design, and cinematography. The series effortlessly transports viewers to a bygone era, immersing them in the sights and sounds of Renaissance England. The dark undertones of the narrative are accentuated by atmospheric visuals, contributing to a sense of suspense and intrigue throughout.
The darkness of Shardlake lends itself to a tone reminiscent of a Renaissance Game of Thrones, complete with a palpable sense of intrigue, violence, and a fair bit gruesomeness. It’s a surprising departure for a series on Disney+, yet it underscores the platform’s evolution as it collaborates with Hulu to explore more mature themes and narratives. This juxtaposition of historical drama with gritty realism adds depth to the series, making it a compelling watch for audiences seeking a blend of suspense and visceral storytelling.
Shardlake is a captivating mystery series with a solid plot and a compelling cast of characters. With its blend of historical drama and detective intrigue, the series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, delivering a healthy dose of suspense and creep factor. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply enjoy a well-crafted mystery, Shardlake is sure to satisfy your craving for engaging storytelling.
Hi there, I’m Max Taff! If you found my insights on Shardlake compelling, join me for more discussions on Twitter @VigilanteVibes. Dive deeper into the world of Marvel with my podcast, Vigilante Vibes: A Marvel Podcast. And if you’re looking for a welcoming community to explore all things nerdy, join my non-toxic Facebook group, MediaVerse: Comic Unwrapped, boasting over 50k members. Let’s connect and delve into our favorite fandoms together!
Shardlake premieres on Hulu on Wednesday, May 1st. Check out the trailer below.