Le Guépard

The Leopard is a breathtaking reimagining of Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa's classic Italian novel Il Gattopardo. Set in 19th-century Sicily, the series masterfully captures the shifting tides of power and tradition during a time of political upheaval, blending sumptuous visuals with compelling storytelling. The production value is nothing short of stunning-every frame feels like a painting brought to life, with intricate period costumes, dazzling cinematography, and an authentic recreation of Sicily's landscapes. The performances, particularly from Kim Rossi Stuart, Benedetta Porcaroli, and Saul Nanni, bring a raw intensity to their roles, making the dynamics between their characters both poignant and memorable.

My wife and I just watched the Netflix series and the 1963 Visconti film (available for $ on Prime), and here are our takeaways. The film holds up vey well, especially the 1983 vastly improved cut still holds up. It's a splendid example of a movie epic in the grandest style. The Netflix series is nicely updated for current sensibilities by expanding and enhancing Concetta's role in the family saga. This by no means detracts or diminishes the overarching theme of a class in decline. The novel in fact ends with Concetta as more prominent, so the series does a good job of building off that. Both are outstanding productions comparable to Gone With the Wind and well worth watching, especially for those with a fondness for family sagas.

Incidental note: Deva Cassel is well-positioned to be the next Bond Girl.

Many don't know that Italy was united very late in history and that unification came with tremendous upheaval. I have read that Don Fabrizio was based on Lampedusa's own grandfather. You may not sympathize with the privileged life depicted here but Don Fabrizio is an amazing character -- entitled and flawed, yes, but also prescient, indomitable, resilient, shrewd, loving, pragmatic, and, in his own way, principled. Note the importance of the Church in the story -- Catholicism vs. Secularism was part of the conflict, especially since some Italian states were Papal states well into the 19th century. Also, the contrast between northern Italy, represented by the new government and Concetta's suitor, versus the culture of the South, is an important element, as well as the eternal class struggle. The production is visually beautiful too. I recommend reading the novel by Lampedusa and streaming the Luchino Visconti film with Burt Lancaster as well. Decide for yourself which is best -- for me, they all complement each other. So glad this great story is getting a new audience.

Based on Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusas's novel, The Leopard, Italy's War and Peace, the series details the revolution led by Giuseppe Garibaldi, beginning in 1860, which led, eventually, to the unification of Italy. It betters Visconti's 1963 film adaptation in many ways, not least in using genuine Italian actors instead of glamorous Hollywood stars like Burt Lancaster and Alain Delon-who were dubbed and Claudia Cardinale who had no need to be. The sets are fabulous because they're actual "pallazzi", Sicilian palaces, packed with the art of the times. There's romance, intrigue, politics and religion, what more could you ask for.

I just read the book recently and the movie is just as beautiful. Nobody does it like the Italians. If you're a real fan of theater as an art form and film as a life-changing world enhancing experience then you should definitely see the leopard. Cinematography is absolutely stunning. What a beautiful period piece ; costumes magical, This is a stunningly visually crafted masterpiece of a series. But you have to watch it in Italian. Thank you, Netflix. The acting is incredible and spiritually enhancing with a handsomely beautiful cast. Enjoyable to watch. A lesson in history about Sicily. Lovely to see Sicily. Recommend.