Mary & George (2024)
Nicholas Galitzine, Julianne Moore and Tony Curran star in the 2024 historical drama series MARY & GEORGE.
Today’s post was selected/written by QCA guest writer João Delfim (@circus_of_my_mind on Instagram).
MARY & GEORGE
2024. UK.
Created by: D. C. Moore
Based on: “The King's Assassin” (2017) by Benjamin Woolley
Directed by: Oliver Hermanus, Alex Winckler & Florian Cossen
Starring: Julianne Moore, Nicholas Galitzine, Tony Curran, Mark O’Halloran, Niamh Algar, Adrian Rawlins, Laurie Davidson, Sean Gilder, Pearl Chanda, Trine Dyrholm & Simon Russell Beale
Overflowing with Queer eroticism, Sky’s historical drama is a delightful ride that brings to light a small, though fascinating, episode of British History. Based on the book by Benjamin Woolley, the miniseries explores the complex relationship between King James and George Villiers, later to be remembered as the mysterious figure behind the monarch’s inglorious demise.
George starts off as a naïve second son to Mary Villiers, living in an abusive household. After his father’s death, George is sent to France for further education, where he is taught how to behave like a royal by local aristocrats and quickly thrives in his debut gay sexual experiences — enter exquisite French actor Khalil Ben Gharbia in the enchanting role of Jean. The plot slowly follows George’s social ascension, as he carries out Mary’s plan for him to become the King’s favourite — ultimately culminating in a tragic fate for both the youth and James.
From passionate sex to interest-motivated encounters, MARY & GEORGE is a remarkable showcase of fluid sexuality in contemporary media. George’s relationship with the King is complex, for it can be as manipulative as tender and touching at times. George’s Greek-like figure and body are not the only displays of sensuality, making for a rather innovative representation of desire. Midway through the narrative, the uncovering of James’ past love for an older nobleman makes for an inspired, heartfelt performance from Tony Curran and stands out as one of the best episodes overall. Adding to that, Mary’s lustful affair with courtesan Sandie Brookes slowly morphs into a complex love story, thus bringing yet another Queer relationship to the table.
On top of being bold, stylish, and irreverent, MARY & GEORGE is a worthwhile display of broad sexuality both as a tool to power and a manifestation of desire or love. To put it as George so bluntly does, this ensemble won’t fail to keep you aroused all the way through, and it guarantees a refreshing, thrilling ride for Queer fans of the period-drama genre.
MARY & GEORGE is streaming on Crave (Canada), Starz (Canada/USA), Roku & Max (USA), Sky & Now (UK) and Binge & Foxtel (Aus).
