Most people have been getting upset by the casting. And while there are a few minor hiccups here and there, I'd say that overall the casting is still strong.
The sets and costumes are absolutely still at the very top. But what actually bothered me this season is just the way they slowed the pacing of the story down even further. And I don't mean this only in timeframe, but also just the rate at which interesting events happen in the episodes. Firstly, this season only covers five years, the shortest timespan of any season. Which wouldn't have to be a problem, but the importance and interestingness of the stories also took a tumble. Most of it is just internal family business, there's hardly any real politics being covered and the Queen is being overshadowed in her own show. Many character arcs feel like they've become stale.
Sadly this makes for an altogether weaker viewing experience. However, there are still some really strong moments in this season. I expect fans will still like this, just a bit less than before.
The sets and costumes are absolutely still at the very top. But what actually bothered me this season is just the way they slowed the pacing of the story down even further. And I don't mean this only in timeframe, but also just the rate at which interesting events happen in the episodes. Firstly, this season only covers five years, the shortest timespan of any season. Which wouldn't have to be a problem, but the importance and interestingness of the stories also took a tumble. Most of it is just internal family business, there's hardly any real politics being covered and the Queen is being overshadowed in her own show. Many character arcs feel like they've become stale.
Sadly this makes for an altogether weaker viewing experience. However, there are still some really strong moments in this season. I expect fans will still like this, just a bit less than before.