I think it is apparent that I’ve been on a bit of a history kick as of late in terms of the shows I have been watching. I recently finished Barbarians, and because I really enjoyed it, I thought I would start watching The Last Kingdom via Netflix as it, too, is a historical series.
The Last Kingdom depicts the story of Uhtred, a warrior, who was born a Saxon but raised by Vikings as his family was murdered when he was a child and he was taken hostage by the Danes. His ancestral birthright states that he is Lord of Bebbanburg, however, after his father’s death and Uhtred’s kidnapping, Uhtred’s uncle took claim, leaving Uhtred to fight for his life and his rightful authority.
Starring Alexander Dreymon as Uhtred and Ian Hart as Father Beocca, among a host of other characters, I have to say that the cast of this show is one of the best I’ve seen. Mind you, I’ve only just begun the second season and therefore likely will learn of many new characters, but so far, I am seriously impressed by the work of the chosen actors and actresses to bring this show to life.
I’m no history buff, but overall, I believe the show to be relatively historically accurate as it is based off of The Saxon Stories by Bernard Cornwell. There are historical records that show Uhtred did exist and was, in fact, an ealdorman of Northumbria, which is quite fascinating, in my opinion.
This show is absolutely worth watching. Regardless if you enjoy historical series, The Last Kingdom offers a little bit of everything which allows it to appeal to just about anyone; love, tragedy, triumph, battle, betrayal, suspense and more. It is quite gory at times like many historical shows, but if you’re not terribly squeamish, I recommend tuning into this series at some point.
ontheedgeofeverything 