When the film is better than the book I've been trying to read Perez-Reverte for a long time. The narrator’s (Iñigo) style of storytelling, which was rather flavored with uncomplicated humor, did not allow me to feel the drama of events. Characters in the novel 'Captain Alatriste' barely outlined, only the main character is revealed. About historical personalities, those very ' powerful of this world ' and there is nothing to say ...
On the contrary, from the first episode I was interested in many characters. As a history lover, I am pleased that much attention is paid to real historical characters: King Philip IV, Prince Charles (the future English King Charles I), Infante Mary and others. And even though charming Karl does not look at all like his prototype, but the story of an adventurous trip across Europe to a bride familiar only from the portrait really was! It is so strange to think that this frivolous prince and future opponent of Oliver Cromwell (see, for example, ' Kill the King' (2003)) are the same person. You begin to look at this ill-fated king in a whole new way. For some, the matchmaking in the series seems too long - but that's the whole point! Perhaps you have not read the novel Vsevolod Solovyov & #39; The bridegroom princess' - there is a similar situation described throughout the book. IMHO, this is not boring, but allows you to better feel the atmosphere of palace life, full of intrigues, restrictions and religious intolerance that are not visible to outsiders.
Also impressed by the young actress, who played the role of Angelica - held at the same time as a child and as an adult and does not look unnatural. Few children can do that...
I’m not saying that the series is full of beautiful men and women for all tastes. I see no reason to attribute this to the minuses, especially in the presence of a fair number of bed scenes.
Summing up, I will say that the series is interesting for the characters, the plot, and the atmosphere. All genres (historical drama, melodrama, action adventure) successfully balance each other in it. And dissatisfied people who want a literal adaptation of their favorite work are always there.
9 out of 10
Original