I really didn't know what to expect from this show. Episode 1 was really perfect. Without giving away spoilers, it's really hard to give a full review. Samantha Morton and Liv Hill did an excellent job playing Catherine.
The acting, directing, and cinematography was spot on.
Charles Dance from The Game of Thrones was perfect as the Pope.
And Colm Meaney as King Francis was a great choice.
The tone of the first episode was tense, with relief later in the episode.
The bringing of Catherine's court was brilliant.
Breaking the fourth wall was an inspired choice, letting the viewer in on the inner thinking of the queen and queen to be.
The strength and cunning that Liv Hill and Samantha Morton give Catherine makes this a very exciting version of a historical figure.
As a first episode, it was awesome. The fact that it is a miniseries is a little disappointing.
This is an add on to my review. After watching the full series, it was so much better than what I had expected. If you like period pieces, you will love this original take on Queen and Mary. It's just so good.