The Crown: Lady Diana and Margaret Thatcher, finally

After a long wait, The Crown season four has finally come (and gone too soon). I remember the hype before the very first season. And the same hype continues in the show’s fourth year as it introduces new characters, and rightfully so.

Many were waiting from the very beginning to meet Margaret Thatcher and Princess Diana. So, with the immense pressure mounting on the actors, it is safe to say that Gillian Anderson and Emma Corrin pulled off their roles quite well. It must have been daunting to play “the Iron Lady” especially because an industry giant, Meryl Streep, already played the role a while ago.

As for Princes Diana, I cannot fathom how they made Emma look like her. Kudos to the costume and makeup. To the whole production team, as a matter of fact.

These characters were undoubtedly the highlight of this season. However, if you think you can easily fall in love with them, think twice. Both the historical figures were portrayed marvellously by the actors, no doubt. And they did bring emotion and life to the legend. But the entire season is a rollercoaster ride and as the show proceeds, it gets darker and darker and ends with a bitter taste in your mouth. It’s as though you think you want something, but once you get it, you wish you didn't.

Netflix has also released a series of videos titled - Beneath The Crown where they have spelt out some of the issues not covered in the show. So instead of spoiling it for the readers, I would suggest watching those, probably after completing the season.

The season opens with a brilliant hook. I enjoyed the first episode so much that I had to watch it again. Only the Prince of Wales (Josh O’Connor) can tell off Lord Tywin...sorry different show, Lord Mountbatten (Charles Dunce) and get away with it unscathed. Their relationship was one that I loved and cherished over the years.

Composed like a symphony, the season has its highs and lows, and is beautifully crafted. Some episodes could have easily been a movie in itself, but we already know that about The Crown, don’t we?

As always, the queen, Olivia Coleman, outdid herself and it is always a pleasure to watch Helena Bonham Carter, whose acting in one episode dedicated to Princess Margaret was outstanding.

However, the best acting for me this season was that of Josh O’Connor’s. As the series delved further into the relationship and marriage of the “perfect couple,” it brought out the best in him. One mustn’t forget that this is not a biography or documentary but rather fiction based on some real events. It should be a gateway for interested people to do their own research or enjoy it as entertainment and not see it as reality. So, when you watch the show, take it with a grain of salt.

With the end of this season, the audience has to bid farewell to the present cast ensemble as the show will introduce fresh faces in the next season. Now, it is again a waiting game. Let’s see what Peter Morgan has in store for us next.