Netflix offers a plethora of new content each month, ensuring there’s always something fresh to watch.
In April, viewers were treated to several notable original series premieres, such as Ripley, Parasyte: The Grey, and Good Times, alongside the addition of HBO’s Sex and the City.
However, if you’re looking for the standout show of the month, Black Sails is a must-watch.
Launched by Starz in 2014, Black Sails was crafted in the spirit of Spartacus and Camelot, aiming to make its mark in the post-Game of Thrones television landscape.
Serving as both a historical epic and a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, the series introduces audiences to characters beyond the famed Long John Silver.
While Silver does feature prominently, the narrative primarily revolves around lesser-known figures from Stevenson’s novel, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved tale.
R-Rated Historical Tale
In Treasure Island, Captain Flint is a pivotal figure, although he doesn’t physically appear in the narrative. Instead, his legendary treasure drives much of the plot.
This allowed the creators of Black Sails ample room to develop Flint’s character and backstory, intertwining him with both original and historical figures from the pirate era.
While the series doesn’t serve as a strict historical lesson, grounding its narrative in reality adds depth to the storytelling.
Unlike the whimsical tone of Pirates of the Caribbean, Black Sails ventures into darker, more mature territory, earning its R-rating with gritty drama.
Its availability on Netflix provides a platform that may expose it to a wider audience than its original airing on Starz. If you’re still on the fence, here are compelling reasons to dive into Black Sails on Netflix this April.
Black Sails: A Captivating Ensemble Adventure
Toby Stephens takes the lead role as James Flint, accompanied by Luke Arnold as Long John Silver, both delivering captivating performances. However, the strength of Black Sails lies in its ensemble cast, which enriches the broader narrative and multiple storylines.
Hannah New shines as Eleanor Guthrie, the figurehead of the pirate haven New Providence, constantly battling to maintain control in the tumultuous world of piracy.
The series intricately weaves supporting characters into the lives of real historical pirates, such as Anne Bonny portrayed by Clara Paget, who shares a romantic subplot with Max, played by Jessica Parker Kennedy.
Other notable characters include Charles Vane, Jack Rackham, William “Billy Bones” Manderly, Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, and Israel Hands, all of whom are legends in pirate lore.
Witnessing these iconic figures play a role in the unfolding narrative adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the series.
High Seas Drama: Black Sails’ Intense Action Sequences
While Black Sails doesn’t reach the expansive scale of Game of Thrones, it certainly doesn’t hold back when it comes to action sequences.
The series shines in its portrayal of intense ship battles, often showcasing the harsh realities faced by pirates at sea.
Beyond contending with the English Navy and rival pirates, characters must also navigate the treacherous waters, adding an extra layer of danger.
The show’s strength lies in its ability to heighten the drama of these battles, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats and questioning the fate of their favorite characters.
In the world of Black Sails, even historical pirates aren’t guaranteed to make it out alive, adding a level of unpredictability to the narrative.
Flint and Silver: Anchors of Black Sails’ Masterful Narrative
Opinions vary among fans regarding the somewhat abrupt conclusion of Black Sails, serving as a point of contention within the fan community. However, regardless of individual perspectives on this matter, the series undeniably excelled in crafting a compelling narrative throughout its four-season journey.
Central to this narrative are the characters of Flint and Silver, whose intertwined fates drive much of the plot.
Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, their relationship remains a cornerstone of the story, with both characters relying on each other for survival.
Even in moments of adversity, Silver and Flint find common ground, showcasing the depth of their connection and the complexity of their dynamic.
