"Paterfamilias" is the penultimate episode of an on the whole very good Season 2 of what was one of Netflix's best shows in its prime (Seasons 3 and 4 aren't as consistent). The premise immediately intrigued me, as it does deal with a tough topic and it was a look at Prince Phillip in his youth. Was hoping though that it wouldn't be too melodramatic, would handle the subject in good taste and that it would develop Phillip better than "Lisbon" earlier in the season did.
It certainly does thankfully and absolutely brilliantly. It is an illuminating, harrowing and poignant episode and definitely one of the best episodes of Season 2, a season where even its weakest episode "Lisbon" was still good. Along with "Marionettes" and "Vergangenheit". Not just that, "Paterfamilias" is up there with one of the best episodes of 'The Crown' and demonstrates what it is all about and stands for. If one is wondering whether the hype is deserved, look at this for example and it will be easy to see the appeal.
Visually "Paterfamilias" is faultless. The expense really does show in the classy, sumptuous period detail and the atmospheric and elegant way it's shot. The music for me wasn't too intrusive or low-key and was beautiful scoring on its own. The main theme is not easy to forget.
Writing probes a lot of thought and is never less than intriguing and emotionally investable, it never veers into soap-opera land and doesn't sound too modern. The retrospective structure is always clear and never jumpy, the past never dulling the episode's pace. What young Phillip goes through is not an easy watch, but while it pulls no punches it doesn't become too heavy. Emotionally a lot of poignancy can be found.
The episode contains some of the best character writing of the season and of 'The Crown', young Phillip's character writing and development is illuminating, very insightful and helps one understand how he came to be the way he became when he became Elizabeth's husband and Duke of Edinburgh. The acting is top class all round, with top honours going to an outstanding and often moving Finn Elliot (one of the best and most layered performances of the season).
All in all, brilliant. 10/10.
