Leonardo

Leonardo is an enthralling 2021 historical television drama series that premiered on the CW network, produced by The Alliance and Lux Vide in association with RAI Fiction and Big Light Productions. The show brings together a star-studded cast with names high on the bill such as Aidan Turner, Matilda De Angelis, Freddie Highmore, and many more, overseen by showrunner Frank Spotnitz.

The series beautifully recaptures the genius of Leonardo Da Vinci, a renowned Italian polymath whose areas of interest included invention, painting, sculpting, architecture, science, music, mathematics, engineering, literature, anatomy, geology, astronomy, botany, writing, history, and cartography during the High Renaissance era. He is also known for creating one of the most iconic pieces of art, the Mona Lisa.

Aidan Turner takes on the leading role, portraying Leonardo Da Vinci, bringing vulnerability and brilliance to the character, presenting an intimate view into the life of the influential and complicated visionary. Turner tactfully navigates the narrative, balancing his character's commanding genius with his personal struggles and human flaws. The show sheds light not only on Leonardo's genius but also on the man behind the legend.

Matilda De Angelis plays Caterina da Cremona, a close friend and muse to Leonardo da Vinci, giving a remarkable performance, her character’s dynamics with Turner forming a key part of the narrative. Freddie Highmore portrays Stefano Giraldi, a curious and determined officer of the Podestà who becomes significantly important in investigating Leonardo's life.

The series is designed as a crime story, focusing on an original, compelling plot through eight one-hour episodes, with each one incorporating one of Leonardo's ingenious and revolutionary masterpieces, admirably blending history with fiction. Beyond merely recounting the life of Leonardo da Vinci, the series delves into the mysteries surrounding not only his genius but also his personal life, character, and identity.

The cast of the show consists of a wealth of talent, including Giancarlo Giannini, James D'Arcy, Max Bennett, Miriam Dalmazio, Robin Renucci, Alessandro Sperduti, Josafat Vagni, Andrew Knott, Massimo De Santis, Carlos Cuevas, Giovanni Scifoni, Claudio Castrogiovanni, Flavio Parenti, Sergio Albelli, Poppy Gilbert, Edan Hayhurst, Corrado Invernizzi, Davide Iacopini, and Pierpaolo Spollon. Each of these actors, coupled with a well-crafted script, breathing life into their respective characters and enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Another noteworthy aspect of the series is its exquisite production. The filmmaking team offers a vivid period piece, complemented with lavish, historically accurate costumes, stunning locations, and impressive re-creations of art pieces. The visually radiant atmosphere paints an appealing picture of 15th-century Italy. It's almost as if viewers get a real-life perspective of the world Leonardo actually inhabited and influenced.

The series is directed by Daniel Percival and Alexis Sweet. It is not just an epic retelling of the artist's life, but one that introduces the audience to Leonardo's lesser-known facets, probing into his struggles, passions, and fears, making his story even more relatable. The overall narrative goes deeper, exploring his strained relationship with his father, his strong bond with his mother, his unusual friendships, and his romantic infatuations. Each episode dives into these moments, building a multidimensional portrayal of the protagonist.

Furthermore, Leonardo is expertly written and retains an authentic touch throughout, with a balanced blend of fact and fiction. It is meticulously researched, showcasing the historical and cultural environment of the time. A compelling background score complements the artistic visual presentation, aptly capturing the drama's shifting moods.

The drama takes viewers on a journey through the life of one of the most influential figures in world history, a titanic figure who influenced the course of history through his artistry and inventions. It brilliantly humanises the iconic figure, making him accessible and relatable. In essence, Leonardo gives us an understanding of the man behind the artist - defined not just by his extraordinary works but his complex personal life and the profound impact he left on the world. With its intricate storytelling, fantastic performances, and gorgeous cinematography, Leonardo is an intriguing biography drama that will captivate viewers from start to finish.