The semi biographical series takes the viewer on a journey from where Princess Elizabeth of York becomes Queens Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. I say semi biographical because while it is telling the story of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during her reign as well as her family, there is much dramatization to suspend disbelief on what happened behind the palace doors over the years. As someone who enjoys biographies & British television dramas, The Crown provides the best of both worlds. The sets are, like Bridgerton, a character as well with the high ceilings and amazing artwork.
The cast did a stellar job portraying the Royal Family. The actresses (Claire Foy, Olivia Coleman & Imelda Staunton) who took to task of being the longest reigning monarch in royal history, were successful at it. I didn’t find it offensive or disrespectful as it is shown in the series that they were all well aware that any and everyone who knows about or knows Her Majesty The Queen personally will be watching each and every move, gesture & tone of voice to name a few. The reaction has been given from both ends of the spectrum. And that’s no surprise when it comes to such a worldly public figure. Each brought their own style of acting while staying true to The Queen. They are now a part of a group of actresses who have portrayed HRH. This series is one to be added to the list of Netflix Originals to have knocked it out of the park, and it’s worth a repeat binge.
As previously stated, there is much dramatization, there is also much to learn about the members of the Royal Family. For me, it was Princess Margaret and Princess Anne. Like most shows of this caliber, there are many stand out moments that viewers either anticipated seeing on screen or those that were unexpected to be made aware of; the latter because not all of us are not Royal historians.
This is also a show that can qualify as a source of escapism; like being transported to the beginning of Her Majesty’s reign. Which leads us to the first moment that is not only a standout moment that changed the course of her life, but the moment that solidifies the tone of the series.
Heavy the Head that Wears the Crown
Elizabeth Mary, Princess of York, was set to live a happily married life with her husband Philip, Prince of Edinburgh while her father King George VI was at the helm as the monarch of England. Her uncle King Edward abdicated the throne in order to marry his wife Wallis Simpson – a divorcée – which at the time was frowned upon. Thus putting her in the position of being next in line after her father. She would get the sad news while on her honeymoon that the King passed away. Due to Elizabeth being the first-born child of the King & Queen Elizabeth The Mother, the then 25 year old is given the task to take the throne…and the Crown. They made the process happen so quickly, it seems as though her head was spinning. It would also change the dynamic of her relationships a bit with both her sister and husband. She knew from that day forward, her life would never be the same. Even though there were many bumps and hurdles to go through, she handled it with style, grace and devotion to her country until her last day.
The Love That Wasn’t Allowed to Grow
Peter Townsend, the query of the Royal Family & British Royal Air Force Officer, was close with the Royals as he was the lead attendant to King George VI. This contributed to developing a friendship with both Princesses Elizabeth & Margaret; the latter becoming a great love in his life. Even though he served the Royal Family & was very loyal to them, he & Princess Margaret were unable to get married. Initially, it seemed that The Queen was on board with the union because she knew of Peter’s loyalty to the family as well as his genuine feelings towards her sister. And it would have gone off without a hitch if it weren’t for Royal Secretary Tommy Lascelle & the Queen Mother advising on how it wouldn’t be acceptable & it would be a bad look on the monarchy for this marriage to take place. This is because Peter was a divorcée, and his ex-wife was still alive. Needless to say, these very same people may have some personal discrepancies. The difference being is that their situations won’t be under a microscope. The Royal Marriages Act 1772 was also mentioned where it shows that Margaret wouldn’t be able to marry him until she turned 25. This was an unfair move as ultimately, the marriage didn’t come to fruition. I would like to think that Her Majesty The Queen really wanted to ensure her sister’s happiness but she had to adhere to the law of the commonwealth.
The Charles/Diana/Camilla Storyline – The Early Years
Those of us who grew up in the 80’s remembers one of the most memorable weddings of the 20th century. As children, we weren’t aware of the third party known to be Camilla Parker Bowles (née Shand), the current Queen Consort. Having known each other since the 70’s, Prince Charles and his future Queen became very close before, during and after their respective marriages. During his courtship & marriage to Diana, he was still in constant contact with Camilla. There was an infamous phone call between them that got widespread attention. A lot of people felt that Charles was wrong to continue on with his relationship with Camilla; how it effected Diana. It could be perceived to be doomed from the start at the moment of the announcement of their engagement when he said “Whatever in love means“. And he was in the wrong, especially when he didn’t even try hiding being out and about with Camilla. There is word that the People’s Princess had an outside relationship of own. It doesn’t justify what Charles has done. It would be safe to say that it was in retaliation to his indiscretions. Initially, Diana did love her then husband and one would like to think that there were some genuine feelings for her from the future King. It just didn’t overshadow his love for Camilla. This was one of the many situations that was sacrificial to The Crown.
The Interview That Shook The Palace Walls
A year before their divorce was finalized, Diana, Princess of Wales sat down with British journalist Martin Bashir for an interview on BBC’s Panorama series; the same journalist who did a shady interview with Michael Jackson in 2003. While it appears that Diana was speaking her truth, the tactics to make this happen was underhandedly done by the interviewer himself. All just to shake things up in the monarchy. It seemed to also really upset Charles who was watching with Camilla as Diana was spilling the tea. This would begin a small public battle between the two. And who can forget that infamous line? “There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded”. An unfortunately relatable sentiment.
The Free Spirit That is Princess Margaret
Wonderfully portrayed by Vanessa Kirby, Helena Bonham Carter & Lesley Manville, Princess Margaret is a great example of someone living in the moment. She is worthy of living vicariously through as someone who loved to entertain, being an avid art lover and the life of the party. Princess Margaret was the fire for Queen Elizabeth. She was the extra voice for her sister as well, which happened a lot. Not because The Queen didn’t have that same fire or the same strength in her voice; it’s almost as if she had to suppress those qualities a bit upon taking the Crown (this will be addressed later). Despite having lost the love of her life in Peter Townsend due to protecting the monarchy’s image & the rocky marriage with Anthony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowden, Princess Margaret made the most of her life & then some, to the end.
It was nice to see that she had her besties & would wind up being the breakout at the party or the guest the hosts knew would liven things up. She can provide inspiration to the viewer. To be strong & stand by your convictions. To challenge people & not to be afraid to speak your mind. Princess Margaret shared what can be considered her favorite moment with her sister. Check out Ritz (S6, Ep8) & you’ll understand where I’m coming from. Princess Margaret, while honoring her royal duties, was a free spirit who loved living; not existing. She deserved the happiness she could have had with Peter. This is relevant at the veterans’ reception in Annus Horribilis (S5, Ep4) as they dance and looked into each other’s eyes and fell right into the habit of enjoying a great time at a party together as if no time passed. Who knows what could have been?
The Infamous Revenge Dress
After Prince Charles gave his televised interview that most viewed as a retaliative strike towards Diana’s Panorama interview. The then Princess of Wales, seeing her soon-to-be ex-husband admit what the world already knew, decided to make a bold statement without saying one word. To show that she is stronger than they would imagine, she arrives at a Vanity Fair charity event in a Christina Stambolian designed evening gown that was off the shoulders. To compliment the dress was necklace that she upgraded from a broach that was passed down to her from Queen Mary. This move took ‘hold your head up high’ to another level. It’s one that can spark inspiration to this day on how to handle the humiliation such as Diana did. Way to shake things up in the establishment.
The Queen vs The Iron Lady
Gillian Anderson enters the fourth season of The Crown as the first woman elected Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. While being respectful, the Prime Minister makes certain that she’s not one who is going to gravel and appease Her Majesty The Queen. The highlight for me was when they were going back and forth about the sanctions regarding the people of South Africa during apartheid. After much “discussion” as well as rewording a few terms, an agreement was made in the Queen’s favor, but it appeared that Margaret pulled a checkmate move by speaking against it; obviously this upset The Queen. There may have been many who disliked some of her practices, but Prime Minister Thatcher was about her business doing what she believed was in the best interest of the good people of Britain.
Side note: Gillian’s curtsy was flawless.
The Sisterly Bond
Sisters, sisters/There were never such devoted sisters
Princesses Elizabeth & Margaret were inseparable as children, enjoying their youth & time spent with their parents; leading into their teenage & young adult years. Due to The King’s untimely death, Elizabeth becomes The Queen of England, causing a slight shift in their relationship. At times, it looked like the change in leadership wouldn’t affect their sisterhood as The Queen still considered her sister to be a close & constant confidant. Then there were those times where The Crown took precedent over matters of the heart. It took a lot to process the moves that were at the insistence of the Parliament and how The Crown has to “always win”, I believed that Princess Margaret got the brunt of it as stated earlier in this piece.
In the final season, Princess Margaret shares one of her favorite moments that she shared with her sister on VE Day, known as Victoria in Europe Day. The streets of London were vibrant with the celebration of Germany surrendering in World War II in London. The young Princesses, along with lifelong friends Peter & Porchy, are at The Ritz Hotel celebrating the cease-firing. Princess Elizabeth’s interest was sparked by the excitement of what was happening in the lower level of the esteemed venue called The Pink Sink. It’s one of the rare moments where she seemed to be out of her comfort zone, enjoying and living in the moment. Not only did her sister loved seeing Elizabeth having fun, Margaret joined her until sunrise. Losing her sister was the beginning to the end of an era which is her reign as Queen.
The Unsuccessfully Forced Union of Diana & Dodi
In season 5, we see Mohamed Al-Fayed expressing interest in obtaining British citizenship & being a part of the social circles that would lead to the Palace. One such move was one where he would get the chance to meet with the Queen at a polo match where her son Prince Charles was a participant. He instead meets Charles’ wife, Princess Diana. After some small talk, Mohamed warms up to her and he introduces her to his son, Dodi. They remain friends before, during and after her divorce from the future king. Mohamed thought they would make for a great couple. He also saw this potential union as a means of getting his foot in the door of British society. Not that Dodi wasn’t interested or didn’t find the Princess of Wales attractive, he was in a relationship already and wanted to live life on his terms.
The way it was portrayed, one would think that Al-Fayed was a little too eager to rub elbows with Britain’s highest of societies. It was plain to see that The Queen wasn’t too interested in meeting with the billionaire businessman. He even went as far as buying the former home of Edward VIII, The Queen’s uncle. Dodi began to take a liking to Diana eventually. So much so to the point of breaking off his engagement to model Kelly Fisher; in a roundabout way orchestrated by his father. As much as the public was led to believe, the relationship was more of a friendship than an intimate one. She appreciated Dodi more as a friend. Much to his father’s disappointment of the process not going as how he would have hoped. 27 years and we still wonder how things would be had she not gotten been in that car.
The Bold Princess Anne
As it’s presented in season 4, Princess Anne is Prince Philip’s favorite out of his 4 children with Queen Elizabeth. To see Erin Doherty’s incredible performance, it’s easy to understand why. I would say based on the portrayal, Anne takes after her father and her Aunt – Princess Margaret. This girl has no filter & gets straight to the point. There have been several moments where this has been proven. One such moment is when she was questioned by her parents, grandmother, aunt & uncle about the status of the relationship between Charles & Diana. Anne doesn’t sugarcoat anything; she gives them a scenario of said relationship; as well as how Camilla fits in all of that. She also makes mention of her involvement with Camilla’s ex-boyfriend & eventual 1st husband, Andrew Parker Bowles. The shock value of that moment is so worth it because she’s just enjoying life and having fun. What’s the harm in that? It also appears that she’s closest to Charles, possibly because Charles knows Anne will tell him what he needs to hear, not what he wants to hear. Another element to notice is that Princess Anne has a great sense of style; matching her sharp wit.
Cousins in Hiding
Narissa & Katherine Bowes-Lyon, first cousins of Queen Elizabeth & Princess Margaret on their Mother’s side were believed to be dead. That was until Margaret’s therapist let it slip that they are in fact still alive. After some sleuthing, she finds out these two young ladies, along with a few other family members, have been residing in a mental institution. It not only upsets Margaret, she’s worried about her own mental health. She confronts her Mother about this sad revelation & it looks as if Pandora’s Box was opened. The Queen Mother tried to defend the reason as to why they were kept hidden from the public as well as the family. She was afraid their family lineage would come into question. This understandably doesn’t sit well with Princess Margaret. One would comprehend that the main concern of theirs was image perception of the Royal Family. Love is supposed to be unconditional; so it’s been said.
The Courtship of Kate & William
While studying at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, Prince William took notice of fellow student Kate Middleton. After a couple of missteps, they eventually became friends. Kate accused her Mother of orchestrating she & William getting together; all the way down to having her taking a gap year at the same time as he did. It’s one thing that I pursue a relationship with someone you’re interested in yourself, it’s another to be pointed in the direction of said relationship. Now to look at this from her Mother’s point of view, she wanted her daughter to have the best life possible. Got to admit though, this isn’t a bad first step; a nudge if you will. She did seem rather shy initially. William & his friends went to a charity fashion show where Kate walked the runway in a sheer dress; this caught William’s attention. By the locked look in their eyes, going to the next level was inevitable. They got closer as time went on and shared a flat with a few friends from University. The rest as they say is history.
Charles Gets His Happily Ever After
Since the early 70’s, Charles & Camilla developed a close friendship that evolved into a lifelong love neither refused to fight. As far as the presentation the series provided, Charles set his sight on making Camillia his bride; his family had other plans. Even though he had his fair share of companions, no one could take Camilla’s place in his heart. It was acknowledged that he had feelings for her, but it was felt that she wouldn’t be a good fit for the family dynamic. It was expressed that he should be with a woman who the public would accept to be the future Queen; that’s where Lady Diana Spencer comes in. Fast forward to 2005, when Prince Charles was given approval by his mother The Queen, after discussing the matter with Prince William & Harry, to marry Camilla Parker Bowles. This may have taken over 30 years to happen, but you can tell that Charles was over the moon happy and didn’t hesitate to rush to his heart & happily proposed. They had a civil ceremony at Windsor Guildhall with a Service of Prayer & Dedication with the reception at Windsor Castle afterwards. One would think that this union was to make up for Margaret & her heartbreak of not being able to marry Peter – who was a divorcée himself. This writer feels that maybe that’s who Queen Elizabeth was thinking of during the reading of the prayer; the same could have been done for her sister. In any event, she wasn’t just a Queen, she was a mother who was happy to see her son happy with the woman he truly loves.
The Amazing Promo Trailers
After the 1st trailer featuring the music of composer/conductor Rupert Gregson-Williams, the people behind The Crown decided to put a modern spin by way of the music that in one way or another, sets the tone of the trailer. This is a very clever way to draw in new viewers & raise interest with their established viewers. They are worth watching on repeat from time to time. Click on the links & check them out!
I Only Have Eyes for You – The Flamingos (Season 2 – 1956-1964)
In this trailer, Queen Elizabeth is advised on Prince Phillip’s “wild spirit” & it’s possible impact on the monarchy. She meets John & Jacquiline Kennedy. Princess Margaret meets her second husband, Antony Armstrong-Jones, society photographer turned 1st Earl of Snowdon. The Queen finds out about her Uncle – Edward VIII, Duke of Windsor – made that is considered unforgiven.
The Times They Are a-Changin’ – Fort Nowhere (Season 3 – 1964-1977)
We meet Camilla Shand & the closeness of the two growing. Also see Charles discussing with his sister Anne enjoying her time with Camilla’s ex turned husband, Andrew Parker Bowles. Princess Margaret’s marriage to Anthony is unraveling. The Queen & Great Britain prepare for the Silver Jubilee. Prince Charles stands his ground as someone who deserved to be heard & taken seriously as a Senior Royal.
How Soon Is Now? – AG ft. Dresage (Season 4 – 1979-1990)
Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher comes into the fold & shakes things up a little in Parliament. She is put to the test in every step of the way. The Royal Family mourns the loss of a loved one. Charles & Diana meet, date for a while, get engaged & marry. The marriage starts to unravel not long after the marriage begins; partially due to Diana’s popularity over Charles’ grows. Princess Margaret comes to terms with her marriage to Anthony not coming to a positive resolution & embarking on her newly single life. Personally speaking, I don’t think Anthony could handle Margaret’s free spirit.
Bittersweet Symphony – Fort Nowhere for. Emma Allaway (Season 5 – 1991-1997)
This is the season everyone was waiting for, especially us 90’s teens as it was during our high school & college years. This amazing cover is not only a representation of the 90’s, but also an excellent choice for this trailer. It starts with the fire at Windsor Castle & the image of Queen Elizabeth taking in the painful sight of the aftermath; it’s as if seeing pieces & memories of her life in ashes. The amicable decision of Charles & Diana getting a divorce after 15 years of marriage. Diana meets Dodi Fayed & his son Mohamed Al-Fayed. Diana’s Panorama interview is featured & it does not sit well with the family; mainly Charles. Princess Margaret reunites with Peter Townsend. Diana makes headlines with what is known as ‘The Revenge Dress’. Charles & Camilla make things more official as a couple over time. Little by little the life of nobility that has been traditionally common is changing more than that of 10-15 years prior; there’s nothing they can do to stop it.
Mad World – 2WEI, Tommee Profitt w/Fleurie (Season 6, Part1 – 1997-2005)
Diana & her sons vacay with Mohamed Al-Fayed on his family yacht & starts to spend more time with his son Dodi. The press is constantly hounding her. Throughout it all, she does her best to stay strong. She & her sons, not expecting at the time, are having their last phone call. It’s almost closing in on her & Dodi because of the attention from the press & the public. The world gets shook by a tremendous loss. The use of this cover of the 1982 Tears for Fears track is yet another excellent use of song to scene. And to use the same tone as the cover by Michael Andrews & Gary Jules, making it deeper – brilliant.
Sweet Disposition – Fort Nowhere (Season 6, Part 2 – 1997-2005)
The boys, especially William, are working on easing their way back to a form of normalcy after the loss of their Mother. The Royal Family & the people of Great Britain are preparing for The Queen’s Golden Jubilee; as well as celebrating her being the longest serving Monarch in history. The Queen is been informed of the results of poll data that was taken regarding The Royals & how they are viewed by their ways of life in a world that becomes more modern by the days. As well as their interactions with as it was said – ordinary people. Willsmania explodes, deepening the Prince’s dislike with the press. We also see Queen Elizabeth II reflecting on her life, what it could have been had she not become Queen so soon in her life. She is also planning her funeral (Operation London Bridge). Margaret celebrates her birthday at The Ritz where she is given a beautiful toast from her sister; you can see the strong bond and love for each other. Charles & Camilla get married. Kate & William meet in college. The song really conveys the tone of the trailer.
Sleep, Dearie Sleep
The series finale is loaded with memorable moments that were in the news. Charles being allowed to marry Camilla. Prince Harry wearing a German Afrika Korps uniform to a costume birthday party. What stands out for this writer is QEII being alone with her thoughts by way of talking with her middle age (Olivia Coleman) & younger self (Claire Foy) with regard to her possibly stepping down & allowing Charles to take the throne as King. Then there was a rather buzz within the family that this may happen by way of a speech given at the reception; we all know what the outcome was. For those that have watched the show from the series premier to the series finale, this was a very cool thing to see. This can also be viewed as The Queen reflecting on her life and in a moment you can see that even though her younger self says that Elizabeth Windsor is gone, there is a piece left that she held on to while being the Sovereign for England. And it would be understandable that in moments where it was needed, she would go to that place in her heart and be at peace. Something to keep just for herself.
Overall, The Crown was a very well put together series from the casting of these amazing actors to the detailed design of the sets to the wardrobes and all that comes with it. Like most films or series that tell stories based on true events, there are mixed reviews. However, the awards circuit as well as the plethora of fans gave it much praise. If you have yet to binge watch this series, which is understandable with so many shows at your fingertips, definitely put this on your watchlist.
That’s my opinion & everyone is entitled to one.
T. S. Jones
Moonchyld's Entertainment 
Leave a comment