Highlights
The Leopard is a new TV series streaming on Netflix, based on the famous novel by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. It tells the story of the Prince of Salina and his family in 19th-century Sicily, a time when Italy was changing, and old traditions were being challenged. This series is a fresh adaptation following the classic 1963 film by Luchino Visconti.
Directed by Tom Shankland, along with Laura Luchetti and Giuseppe Capotondi, The Leopard brings history to life with stunning visuals and deep emotions. Interestingly, Shankland, who has a personal connection to Sicily, first read the novel in his twenties and later revisited it after marrying a Sicilian woman. Through this series, he aims to show both the beauty and struggles of a changing world.
Storyline:
The Leopard web series:
The Leopard follows Don Fabrizio Corbera, the Prince of Salina (played by Kim Rossi Stuart), a powerful nobleman in Sicily during a time of great change. In 1860, the Italian revolutionary leader Garibaldi and his army, the Redshirts take over Sicily, threatening the old way of life for noble families like the Corberas. To escape the disorder, Don Fabrizio moves his family to their countryside home in Donnafugata. But even there, they cannot avoid the changes happening around them. As Italy moves toward unification, Don Fabrizio must choose between holding on to the past or adapting to the new world.
Storyline of Episode 1
The first episode takes place in 1860, as an army from northern Italy prepares to take over Sicily. Don Fabrizio, the Prince of Salina, sees that the world around him is changing. His nephew, Tancredi who is in love with Fabrizio’s daughter Don Concetta, shocks the family by deciding to join the revolutionaries and fight against their own people. This creates tension in the family and forces Don Fabrizio to face the difficult truth of either welcoming the change or resisting it completely.
Review of The Leopard Episode 1
Positive Aspects:
The episode beautifully brings 1860 Sicily to life, with tall buildings and detailed historical settings that make the world feel real. The disorder in the city, the forbidden entry, and the growing danger are well-presented at the start of the episode.
The conflict between tradition and revolution is interesting, especially through Tancredi’s shocking decision to join the revolutionaries instead of staying loyal to his noble family. This adds strong drama and tension.
The performances are amazing as the actors truly look and act like real princes and nobles, making the story feel authentic.
Emotional moments, such as Prince’s most adored daughter Don Concetta’s love for Tancredi, and Paolo’s anger at him, add depth to the story.
The episode builds tension well, making viewers eager to see what happens next. The chants of “Death to the Bourbons” and “Long Live Italy” highlight the revolutionary spirit of the time.
Negative Aspects:
With so much happening such as political conflict, family drama, and historical events, for a viewer, it really becomes difficult to remember every character’s name. While you know they play an important role, you mostly focus on the main events that take the story forward.
I felt certain character moments could have been explored in more detail to better understand their emotions and the reasons for their decisions.
Prince Don Fabrizio’s inner struggles could have been shown more deeply in the 60-minute Episode 1 itself to help viewers connect with his dilemma of holding onto power or accepting change.
Verdict
The Leopard Episode 1 is a visually stunning and well-acted historical drama that effectively captures the unrest of 1860 Sicily. The story had so many elements to follow but the strong performances and historical richness make it an attractive watch. The series keeps you invested in what will happen next, making you want to continue the episodic journey.
Cast & Crew
Cast:
- Kim Rossi Stuart (Senza Pelle) as Don Fabrizio Corbera, the Prince of Salina
- Benedetta Porcaroli (Immaculate) as Concetta Corbera of Salina
- Deva Cassel (The Beautiful Summer) as Angelica Sedara
- Saul Nanni (Brado) as Tancredi Falconeri
- Paolo Calabresi (Boris) as Padre Pirrone
- Francesco Colella (The Good Mothers) as Don Calogero Sedara
- Astrid Meloni (The Swarm) as Maria Stella Corbera of Salina
- Francesco Di Leva (The Children’s Train) as Russo
- Creator: Richard Warlow
- Producer: Fabrizio Donvito (Indiana Production) in collaboration with Moonage Pictures
- Writers: Richard Warlow and Benji Walters
- Lead Director: Tom Shankland
- Directors: Tom Shankland, Giuseppe Capotondi, and Laura Luchetti
- Music Composer: Paolo Buonvino
Don't miss out on the Latest Updates! Join our official WhatsApp channel and follow us on, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for Breaking News. Send a press release to us at: [email protected].
Follow Us