Velikaya

This magnificently shot, historically accurate, detail focused Russian show tells the story of one of the greatest characters of the Russian history: empress Catherine II the Great. Anyone can google her and find a fascinating tale of her suffering a bit of weak witted, fanatically German husband, becoming Russian to the core (being a German herself), her at first living in the shadow of another great Russian rule, daughter of Peter the Great: Elizabeth the 1st. How she won back the favor of the Russian army, won supporters through advisors, had a handful of lovers and eventually at the head of a coup, after Elizabeth's death, became Russian empress to reign gloriously from 1762 to 1796. These are dry facts, but watch this show of 12 eps to admire Russian architecture, costume, interiors and manners. A very qualitative Russian historical costume drama that features solid performances, has no over the top melodrama and makes you want to read or watch more about this remarkable woman.