BBC period drama hailed as 'one of the best ever' with 'magical' storylines
Consistently ranking on various 'greatest shows of all time' lists, I, Claudius is a 1976 BBC rendition of Robert Graves' identically titled 1934 novel and its 1935 follow-up, Claudius the God.
With a screenplay written by Jack Pulman, I, Claudius showcases a remarkable ensemble cast, spearheaded by Derek Jacobi as Claudius, accompanied by renowned actors such as John Rhys-Davies, Patricia Quinn, Patrick Stewart, Margaret Tyzack, Kevin McNally, Siân Phillips, Ian Ogilvy, Brian Blessed, George Baker, and John Hurt.
As told from the perspective of Roman Emperor Claudius - who also narrates the series - this 13-part period drama unravels the intricate history of the early Roman Empire, delving into its characteristic themes of power, deception, assassination, forbidden love, desire, and moral decay.
The show won three BAFTA Awards in 1977, and in 1978, Tim Harvey claimed a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Art Direction. Featured at number 12 on the British Film Institute's 2000 list of '100 Greatest British Television Programmes', it also secured a spot on TIME Magazine's 2007 list of "100 Best TV Shows of All-TIME".
Widely regarded as one of British television's most iconic series, as well as a groundbreaking show in the broader context of TV history, I, Claudius has garnered 100% critical acclaim and an impressive 92% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reports the Express.
One critic praised the show, saying: "It's amazing. Gripping, dark, complex, compulsive."
I, Claudius is a testament to exceptional television production, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Another critic gushed over the recent addition to Masterpiece Theater, admitting: "Though it may actually defy basic properties and capabilities of the medium, this latest import to march under the Masterpiece Theater banner proves immensely, compulsively watchable. It's so good it's a little embarrassing."
Praises continued as another reviewer celebrated the series, remarking: "It's one of those magical rare TV classics that is forever-fresh no matter how many times you've seen its often fanciful depiction of the lust and brutality of ancient Rome."
The accolades didn't stop there, with another expert in the field pronouncing: "May be the most addictive soap opera ever made. Certainly the best-acted."
Fans also weighed in, with one declaring their admiration for the show: "One of the best TV series of all time. See it for the dialogue and the terrific performances. The acting overwhelms the lack of production values and risible makeup. In my opinion, Sian Phillips and Derek Jacoby deliver the best acting performances of all time."
Echoing similar sentiments, another enthusiast shared their deep connection with both the series and the original novels: "The cast, the writing, the uneasiness and poison that runs throughout the show cannot be missed by anyone. The book(s) have since become some of my favourite novels and I recommend this show to almost everyone who I become close with. 10/10 TV, almost the best of all time."
A viewer hailed the series as a 'masterpiece' and remarked: "Possibly the best show ever made, certainly in terms of script and acting, which are of the highest level you will ever see on TV. Sian Phillips, Brian Blessed, Derek Jacobi, John Hurt, Patrick Stewart.... all in the same show! (Though all the other actors are incredible too). A masterpiece and a masterclass. This is how it's done."
Meanwhile, fans of the classic can bag episodes of Claudius on Amazon Prime Video for £1.89 each or head over to YouTube where they're up for £1.99 a pop.
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