Netflix's hidden gem period drama, The Leopard (Il Gattopardo), is being celebrated as a 'sublime and exquisite masterpiece' that has left viewers completely enthralled. The historical series, based on Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa's 1958 novel, is presenting formidable competition to period drama favourites such as Bridgerton and Downton Abbey. Audiences have commended the breathtaking costumes, outstanding performances, and meticulous attention to detail showcased in the adaptation.
Plot and Setting
The six-episode Italian-language limited series, helmed by Tom Shankland, Giuseppe Capotondi, and Laura Luchetti, is the second official adaptation of the cherished novel, following Luchino Visconti's 1963 film. The series' official synopsis states: 'Amid the unification of 1860s Italy, a Sicilian prince grapples with the collision between his family's ancient privilege and revolutionary change.'
Cast and Production
The Leopard features Kim Rossi Stuart and Benedetta Porcaroli in the principal roles, joined by Saul Nanni, Deva Cassel, Francesco Colella, Astrid Meloni, Paolo Calabresi, and Gaetano Bruno in an impressive ensemble. The production received an enormous budget of €40 million, making it one of the most opulent period dramas available. Principal photography began in April 2023, with filming on location in Sicily, encompassing regions in Syracuse, Palermo, and Catania, as well as Turin. Spanning 105 days of production, the series employed 5,000 background performers, 100 animals, 12 animal handlers, and 130 carriages, vessels, and carts to authentically portray the period.
Critical and Audience Reception
Critics have praised the series, with one writing: 'The series can feel like an exquisite Italian cake, created to perfection, a thing of beauty to behold and indeed devour.' Another said: 'As testaments to the flux of history go, The Leopard manages to be beautiful, engaging and suitably elegiac.' Yet another reviewer added: 'Netflix's The Leopard is a thrilling and dramatic watch with juicy twists and turns.'
Audiences have been similarly enthralled. One IMDB user review called it 'a stunning and captivating masterpiece,' adding: 'Netflix's Il Gattopardo is a resounding masterpiece, realising the beauty and sophistication of Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa's great novel in breathtaking elegance. This is a gem of a show – a great surprise and absolutely wonderful.' Another viewer wrote: 'Everything about The Leopard is exceptional – we were hooked at the first episode, and it only got better. Not since The Godfather has there been such a great combination of drama and passion in an authentic Italian setting.' A fan stated: 'Piece of Art! ... This is a stunningly visually crafted masterpiece of a series. But you have to watch it in Italian. Thank you, Netflix.' Yet another viewer declared: 'Masterpiece! This is an absolute must-see series! As far as I am concerned, this is the best Netflix series I have watched so far.'
The Leopard is available to stream on Netflix.
