Le Guépard

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.

Beautiful take on the book. The relationship between daughter and father as a metaphor of a world changing, whether we want it or not.

I feel like it's not something we see very often and yet father/daughter stories have so much to tell.

I loved to see parts of the book that are maybe only a few lines brought to life in such beautiful scenes.

In the series Sicily is a breathtaking view and Benedetta Porcaroli stuns with her performance... I hope to see her become a really important actress!

I really loved the costumes and the music as well (original soundtrack is on my Spotify playlist of favorites right now)

Happy to have watched it!

The Leopard Series - A Gripping Emotional Ride

The Leopard is not just a series; it's an emotional rollercoaster that grips you from the very first episode. With its intense storytelling, deep character development, and unexpected twists, it keeps you hooked till the very end.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the series is how it plays with emotions. It takes you on a journey filled with suspense, heartbreak, and psychological depth, making you feel every moment as if you're living it yourself. The cinematography and direction are outstanding, enhancing the immersive experience.

However, this series is not for the faint-hearted. It delves into heavy themes that can be mentally and emotionally overwhelming at times. It makes you think, feel, and sometimes even question your own emotions. But that's what makes it truly exceptional-it leaves a lasting impact.

Overall, The Leopard is a masterpiece that blends storytelling, emotions, and suspense flawlessly. If you enjoy thought-provoking and intense dramas, this series is a must-watch. Just be prepared for a journey that will stay with you long after the final episode.

You do keep watching it, so it does engage one's interest, but those viewers who then read the book to the end will be wondering; where's the rest of it?

The small compact story loaded with detail has been expanded into a family and political epic. Many of the additions are good and add suspense, but the further we get from the source material, something is lost. Conchetta becomes the central character. The final episode was overlong , optimistic and unsatisfactorily missed the dual dumping of aristocracy and religious relics.

One can only imagine that episode was the result of an almighty clash between artistic integrity and 'money men' 's idea of a popular ending; and the money men won.

So, something different to Visconte/Lancaster/Cardinale production of 1963.

The Leopard is a 'cinematic novel' that treats several layers with pure mastery. Everything about The Leopard is exceptional---we were hooked at the first episode, and it only got better. Not since The Godfather has there been such a great combination of drama and passion in an authentic Italian setting. A phenomenal cast and breathtaking costumes add to the fun of watching this show. On the one hand, it encapsulates the essence of Sicily, Sicilians, and the Italian Risorgimento. On the other, it takes you on a deep dive into the universal struggle of distinguishing good from evil; in life, relationships, and love. It is also a cinematographic masterpiece: one can almost smell the Sicilian oranges. And the acting...., the acting!