The series depicts the rise of the Medici family to power, starting with the patriarch of the family, Giovanni de’ Medici, who was a successful banker in Florence. The series then follows the lives of his sons, Cosimo and Lorenzo de’ Medici, as they become the most powerful men in the city.
The series is well-known for its accurate portrayal of the Renaissance era, with attention to detail paid to everything from the costumes to the architecture. The series was filmed entirely in Italy, with Florence serving as the primary location.
The show is also notable for its strong performances. The role of Cosimo de’ Medici is played by Richard Madden, best known for his work on the hit series Game of Thrones, while the role of Lorenzo de’ Medici is played by Stuart Martin. Other notable performances include Brian Cox as Giovanni de’ Medici and Annabel Scholey as Contessina de’ Bardi, the wife of Cosimo de’ Medici.
The television series was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Many praised the performances of the show’s cast and the accuracy with which the show depicts the Renaissance era. The show’s success led to Netflix renewing the series for a second season, which aired in 2018.
The second season of Medici focuses on the life of Lorenzo de’ Medici, following his rise to power and his struggles to keep Florence safe from external threats. The second season also introduces several new characters, including Pope Sixtus IV, played by James Cosmo, and Pazzi family member Francesco Salviati, played by Jacob Fortune-Lloyd.
The second season was praised for its continued attention to detail and strong performances from the cast. Despite this, the show was ultimately cancelled after the second season, much to the disappointment of fans.
Medici: Masters of Florence is notable for its strong characterization, accurate historical depiction, and attention to detail. The show’s success led to a spin-off series, Medici: The Magnificent, which premiered in 2018. The series continued to explore the lives of the Medici family, this time focusing on the life of Lorenzo de’ Medici’s son, Giuliano.
In conclusion, Medici: Masters of Florence is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas. The show’s attention to detail and strong performances from the cast create a world that is both mesmerizing and believable. While the show was ultimately cancelled, it remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of accuracy in historical fiction.