This episode contains the long-awaited coronation scene, and it is clear that a huge portion of the budget was spent on this. The result is gorgeous. I want to watch it side by side with footage of the real thing, to see just how accurate it is. The coronation isn't the only scene this episode that takes place in Westminster Abbey, either. The location is taken full advantage of in this episode.
Most of the episode focuses on the preparation for and planning of the coronation. Elizabeth places Philip in charge of planning the coronation. He generates a lot of conflict when he proposes a number of unconventional ideas, prompting a number of scenes which examine the purpose of a monarchy in a very interesting way.
Philip also receives quite a bit of character development in this episode, as his motivations are made clear and his increasing sense of emasculation is shown. Matt Smith is quite good in the role. I was skeptical when I heard he had been cast; I enjoyed him in Doctor Who, but he did not do a whole lot to make me confident in his acting abilities. But in this episode, he does very well.
Overall, this is a marvellous episode of the crown. It contains many great scenes, but will be remembered mostly for its pitch perfect recreation of the coronation.
Most of the episode focuses on the preparation for and planning of the coronation. Elizabeth places Philip in charge of planning the coronation. He generates a lot of conflict when he proposes a number of unconventional ideas, prompting a number of scenes which examine the purpose of a monarchy in a very interesting way.
Philip also receives quite a bit of character development in this episode, as his motivations are made clear and his increasing sense of emasculation is shown. Matt Smith is quite good in the role. I was skeptical when I heard he had been cast; I enjoyed him in Doctor Who, but he did not do a whole lot to make me confident in his acting abilities. But in this episode, he does very well.
Overall, this is a marvellous episode of the crown. It contains many great scenes, but will be remembered mostly for its pitch perfect recreation of the coronation.