When “Victoria” debuted on PBS Masterpiece in 2017, I wondered in my review if the historical drama was worthy of timeslot “Downton Abbey” once occupied. The first season had its strengths and weaknesses, but showed considerable promise.
I am pleased to report that the second season of “Victoria” is stronger than the first. The characters are fleshed out, allowed room to breathe, and the “historic tentpoles” seem less forced — even though the season includes ample political and social intrigue of the period.
I was able to binge watch all episodes of “Victoria” Season 2 with our PBS Passport subscription — which allows PBS donors the chance to view all episodes before they air on local PBS affiliates.
Jenna Coleman (best known for playing Clara Oswald on “Doctor Who”) has settled nicely into the role of youthful queen, bringing spunk and pluck to her portrayal, while turning in some surprisingly sophisticated performances during the season.
Her husband Albert (Tom Hughes) continues to forge his own identity beyond that of serving his queen. Despite some predictable instances of conflict between prince and queen, the writers have developed the pair into an amiable team.
There are moments this season where the two are able to set aside the noose of “pomp and circumstance” and pretend — at least briefly — that they are a common couple living a simple life. Those subplots rank among the best moments in “Victoria,” and add another dimension to the royal couple.
One aspect I enjoyed in season 1 was the focus on the “downstairs staff.” While the relationships and plot lines aren’t as involved as those in “Downton Abbey,” I enjoyed following Skerrett, Brodie, Penge, and Francatelli. In particular, the relationship with Mrs. Skerrett and Mr. Francatelli starts to blossom this season.
There are also new characters introduced to the “Victoria” universe. Diana Rigg comes aboard as the Duchess of Buccleuch — a crotchety old spitfire who provides moments of levity (similar in feel to Maggie Smith’s Dowager Countess in “Downton Abbey”).
In addition, younger characters like the precocious Wilhelmina Coke (Bebe Cave), and fast friends Drummond (Leo Suter) and Lord Alfred (Jordan Waller) provide added depth and texture to the story arcs this season.
The storyline involving the “star-crossed” duo of Prince Ernest (David Oakes) and the Duchess of Sutherland (Margaret Clunie) continues to be the most “Jane Austen-esque” arc of unrequited love in the series. This season, things take a frustrating turn for the pair.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention “Victoria’s” gorgeous soundtrack — which frosts each episode like a sweet buttercream. The score is by Martin Phipps and Ruth Barrett (with soaring vocals by Mediaeval Baebes), and it is incredibly majestic.
Bridget and I recently ordered the “Victoria” soundtrack from Amazon. Here is a link to “The Suite” from the original soundtrack:
“Victoria” settles into a nice groove during its second season, fleshing out our characters and giving more attention to the interpersonal relationships. My hope is that the writers won’t feel a slavish duty to follow history to the letter, and will continue explore this fine cast in a meaningful manner.
If you haven’t yet viewed “Victoria,” you should consider checking it out. The first season is available on the PBS app (for donors via PBS Passport) and is also offered on Amazon Prime Video.
The lavish production is worth your time. “Victoria” illustrates once again why PBS’s co-productions with Britain’s ITV currently rank among the most compelling programming on television.
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