Watch Gunpowder, Treason and Plot

Gunpowder, Treason and Plot is a two-part historical drama from Channel 4, exploring the tumultuous reigns of Mary, Queen of Scots and her son, James VI and I, and the conspiracies and plots that shaped their destinies. The show stars Clémence Poésy as Mary, Queen of Scots, and Robert Carlyle as her former ally and later bitter enemy, Lord Robert Cecil.

The first episode begins with Mary's arrival in Scotland in 1561, after having spent much of her youth in France. While she's welcomed by many, including James Stuart, Earl of Moray (Kevin McKidd), who acts as regent in her absence, others are suspicious of her Catholic faith and her ambitions to claim the English throne, which is held by her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I (Catherine McCormack). Among those who plot against her are James Hepburn, 4th Earl of Bothwell (David Patrick O'Hara), who's eager to marry her and control her reign, and William Cecil, Elizabeth's chief advisor (Tim McInnerny), who sees Mary as a threat to his queen's rule.

As Mary tries to navigate the treacherous waters of Scottish politics, she also finds herself torn between her loyalty to her husband, Lord Darnley (Jack Shepherd), who proves to be a drunken and abusive philanderer, and her attraction to Bothwell, who's more ambitious and daring. Meanwhile, Moray schemes to depose Mary and seize power for himself, while Elizabeth weighs the possibility of having Mary assassinated to protect her own throne.

The second episode takes place several years later, after Mary has been forced to abdicate and flee to England, hoping for Elizabeth's help and protection. However, she finds herself imprisoned and treated as a dangerous rival, as Elizabeth's advisors, including Robert Cecil (Carlyle), plot to undermine her and use her as a pawn in their political games. Mary's fate is sealed when she becomes involved in a plot to assassinate Elizabeth and put Mary on the English throne, which leads to her trial and execution.

The show is a rich and complex portrayal of two fascinating monarchs, who are often overshadowed by Elizabeth's more famous reign. Mary, in particular, is given a nuanced and sympathetic portrayal, as a woman torn between her Catholic faith, her Scottish heritage, and her ambitions to unite her country and rule as a queen in her own right. Poésy brings a raw vulnerability and strength to the role, capturing Mary's courage and intelligence, as well as her flaws and vulnerabilities.

Carlyle, too, is excellent as Cecil, a ruthless and cunning politician who's willing to use any means necessary to protect his queen and his own power. The supporting cast is also strong, with McKidd, O'Hara, McInnerny, and others bringing depth and charisma to their roles as Mary's allies and enemies.

The production values are high, with lush landscapes and sumptuous costumes that evoke the opulence and danger of the 16th century. The score by John Lunn is haunting and evocative, adding to the emotional depth of the story.

Overall, Gunpowder, Treason and Plot is a gripping and well-crafted drama that offers a fresh perspective on a fascinating period of history, as well as strong performances from its talented cast. Fans of historical fiction and political intrigue will find much to enjoy in this show.

Gunpowder, Treason and Plot is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on June 29, 2011.