While Reign is one of the most historically accurate shows on television today, it still manages to deliver plenty of romance, action and adventure. After a rocky first season, the show changed things up, established new plotlines and seemed to get a bit darker.
The season picks up where Season One ended with Francis heading out to help Lola (Anna Popplewell) with the birth of their child just as the country is faced with the return of the Black Death. However, because no plague can hinder intrigue and possible romance, the season premiere introduces King Francis’ (Toby Regbo) cousin Louis Condé (Sean Teale)—a possible rival for his throne and the heart of his wife, Queen Mary Stuart (Adelaide Kane).
Once the plague is over, a civil war is brewing between Catholics and the Protestants; the result of a raid on the castle (an event that shatters Mary’s happy, ordered world). The separation causes Francis to seek out a mistress, while Mary takes up with Louis Condé. Meanwhile, others take the opportunity to make a power grab.
Most of the characters on Reign are complex, realistic and unique. I wonderful to see a show with strong female characters. Smart, conniving and powerful, Queen Mary Stuart is confident and sure of herself. One of those people you love to hate, you may find yourself rooting for her, despite your better judgement. To make things even more interesting, Mary’s ladies in waiting are each distinct individuals, given their own personalities and issues. It’s made clear that they have separate lives and goals.
It’s a bit strange, but although the setting is 14th century France, Reign seems extremely relatable. Take away the royal titles and most of the characters have the same type of concerns and relationship issues we all deal with.
All 22 episodes of Reign Season Two are on the set and looks and sounds very good. Extras are lacking a bit, there’s only one feature—“a day on set with Adelaide Kane” that also has appearances and commentary by her cast mates and important crew members—while the featurette is good, I would have expected more, at least some deleted scenes.
