Black Sails

Premise:
“Black Sails” is a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel “Treasure Island,” and is set in the early 18th century during the Golden Age of Piracy. The show chronicles the lives of notorious pirates as they navigate the lawless waters of the Caribbean, focusing on their hunt for the ultimate prize: a Spanish treasure galleon filled with unimaginable riches.

Main Characters:

  • Captain Flint (Toby Stephens): The enigmatic and ruthless pirate captain of the Walrus.
  • John Silver (Luke Arnold): A cunning and opportunistic pirate, and later the ship’s quartermaster.
  • Eleanor Guthrie (Hannah New): The ambitious daughter of a wealthy merchant who oversees trade in Nassau.
  • Max (Jessica Parker Kennedy): A prostitute-turned-businesswoman who aims for a life of influence and wealth.

Themes:
“Black Sails” delves into themes like power dynamics, betrayal, and the ethical gray areas that come with a life of piracy. It also explores gender roles and societal norms in a time and place where the rule of law is tenuous at best.

Critical Consensus & Rating:
4/5. The series was lauded for its intricate storytelling, character development, and high-quality production values, including its special effects and historical authenticity. However, critics noted that the show had a slow start and took some time to find its footing.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating:
TV-MA due to explicit content, including sexual scenes, violence, and strong language.

Broadcast Details:
The show originally aired on the Starz network from 2014 to 2017.

TV Series Recommendations:

  1. Game of Thrones
  2. Vikings
  3. Spartacus
  4. Penny Dreadful
  5. The Witcher

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *