Catherine the Great (2019)

About Catherine the Great

The 2019 TV series, 'Catherine the Great', is a historical drama that depicts the political and personal life of Russia's longest-ruling female leader. The plot revolves around the final years of her reign during the late 18th century as she develops a unique relationship with Grigory Potemkin. Amidst scandal, intrigue and immense conflict, they develop a unique and devoted relationship, overcoming their adversaries and together serving as the architects of modern-day Russia.

Making / Production

Televised by HBO and Sky, 'Catherine the Great' is produced by Origin Pictures and New Pictures. The four-part drama series is directed by Philip Martin and scripted by Nigel Williams. Filming locations included palaces and historical sites in Russia, Latvia, and Lithuania to capture the grandeur of the era.

Actors

• Helen Mirren as Catherine the Great. She impeccably portrays the strength, wit, and profound intelligence of the Empress, displaying a commanding screen presence.
• Jason Clarke as Grigory Potemkin. Clarke successfully delivers a charismatic performance, showcasing the complex and intricate nature of Potemkin's character.
• Rory Kinnear as Minister Nikita Ivanovich Panin. Kinnear's role as the cautious and astute Minister of Catherine brings an interesting dynamic to the series.
• Joseph Quinn as Prince Paul. Quinn captures the naivety and longing for power of the heir apparent to the Russian empire.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The real Catherine the Great ruled for 34 years, from 1762 to 1796, transforming Russia into one of Europe's leading powers.
• Helen Mirren was inspired to play Catherine after reading a biography of her and realising her life was inaccurately represented in popular culture.
• Despite the show being set in Russia, the majority of the series was filmed in Lithuania.

Awards

'Catherine the Great' received multiple nominations including a win for Helen Mirren at the SAG Awards for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Miniseries or Television Movie.

Quotes

• "I am the state!" - Catherine the Great
• "I have survived and this is my reward, to grow old" - Catherine the Great
• "You forget, I am Empress. And I rule." - Catherine the Great

Music, Soundtrack

• The series features an original score composed by Rupert Gregson-Williams. His music lends a powerful and sophisticated atmosphere to the series.