Blood, Sex & Royalty

Blood, Sex & Royalty, the three-episode mini adaptation of Henry VIII-Anne Boleyn's story is a binge-watch. To be honest, I finished it all at once and totally enjoyed the flow. Netflix continues to add elements of drama into documentary, making it difficult to define its genre. Indeed it is a modern adaptation of a classical story, as shown in its characterization, lines, and background music. Although these innovations might offend some conventional historical drama lovers, the contemporary elements add modernism to the series.

Being one of the most legendary queens, Anne Boleyn's story has been told over and over again yet still captures the audience's attention. Netflix's adaptation selects the most splendid occasions of her short life and makes her narrate her story from her POV. Definitely, it is still a documentary with some authors and professors making comments at the proper time.

This time, Anne Boleyn is interpreted from a feminist perspective. The plot adds some dominant-submissive elements in it, with Anne trying to make the King of England follow her rules but prove to fail her ambition. Anne believes the whip is her instrument to tame a man, but indeed it is only a toy to please the arrogant King.

With her destiny dependant on the man's love other than her own power, Anne is doomed to fail. Even though Catherine is beloved by the people and have strong allies in Europe, she could not compete with Henry VIII's will. By contrast, Anne comes from a common aristocratic family, and her whole power comes from Henry VIII. Anne believes she is the heroine of a fairy tale and wins over the King's heart. Indeed, her untamed triggers the interest of an alpha man, protecting her from experiencing the destiny of a typical mistress like her sister Mary. However, her crown and relationship with Henry VIII are based on her promise of a male heir. Once she can not accomplish her promise, Henry VIII takes her life as the price.