A glossy historical docudrama that attempts to reclaim the legacies of formidable female monarchs, specifically Njinga of Angola and Cleopatra of Egypt. The format utilizes a hybrid of cinematic re-enactments and talking-head commentary from contemporary scholars to contextualize the political and social landscapes of these ancient and early modern reigns. Produced and narrated by Jada Pinkett Smith, the series seeks to bridge the gap between academic history and popular entertainment.
The first block of episodes regarding Njinga is generally well-regarded, offering a fresh look at a ruler often ignored by Western education. However, the second installment focused on Cleopatra became a lightning rod for international debate over the casting of Adele James. Beyond the headlines, the show often struggles with its own identity, as the scholarly interviews provide genuine depth while the dramatized segments occasionally feel thin or over-stylized.
Critics noted that the production values are high, but the writing sometimes favors modern sensibilities over historical nuance. It remains a sincere effort to expand the scope of the televised history lesson, even if the execution leans more toward the "prestige" aesthetic of a streaming service than the rigor of a traditional documentary.
Production Details
USA / UK / 8x45 Minute Episodes / 2023
Created by: Jada Pinkett Smith
Executive Producer: Jada Pinkett Smith, Miguel Melendez, Terence Carter
Music: Michael 'Mikey' J Asante
Main Cast
Jada Pinkett Smith as Narrator
Adesuwa Oni as Njinga
Adele James as Cleopatra
Craig Russell as Mark Antony
John Partridge as Julius Caesar