Ep 5. Smoke and Mirrors

As the fifth episode of the first season of Netflix's critically acclaimed drama series The Crown, "Smoke and Mirrors" delves into the complex relationship between Winston Churchill and his secretary, Venetia Scott. The episode explores the personal and political lives of the two characters, as the prime minister struggles to balance his responsibilities with his personal life.

Set primarily in 1954, "Smoke and Mirrors" begins with Churchill (played brilliantly by John Lithgow) preparing to deliver a speech in the House of Commons, amid growing concerns over the country's economic conditions. Amidst the chaos, Churchill's secretary, Venetia Scott (Kate Phillips), arrives with news of her engagement to Group Captain Peter Townsend (Ben Miles), which throws the prime minister into a tailspin. Knowing that the relationship would be deeply controversial due to the fact that Townsend was divorced, Churchill tries to dissuade Venetia from the marriage and makes emotional pleas to her to reconsider.

However, as the episode progresses, Venetia's relationship with Townsend becomes more complicated, and she finds herself caught between her own desires and the expectations of her family, society, and her boss. The episode is a poignant exploration of the struggles that women faced in the 1950s-era British society and the challenges to societal norms.

As with other episodes of The Crown, "Smoke and Mirrors" is a meticulously crafted period piece, and the attention to detail is evident in the sets, costumes, and the overall tone of the episode. The use of external locations and landmarks, such as Churchill's country house Chartwell, and iconic British institutions, such as the House of Parliament, provides a rich and immersive backdrop for the story.

Furthermore, the episode presents an in-depth look at the intricacies of Churchill's character, and how his personal relationships influenced his political decisions. The subtle portrayal of Churchill's personality and his innate desire to protect England during his golden years in public life is a testament to Lithgow’s performance. The show explores Churchill's vulnerabilities and his inclination to slip into depression and sense of despair as age and ailments threaten to weaken him.

In a broader sense, "Smoke and Mirrors" offers a fascinating and thought-provoking snapshot of a changing Britain as the country navigated the post-World War II era. The episode highlights how social norms and expectations, particularly in regards to gender, were being challenged and how this ultimately challenged the established political norms, forcing a shift in the balance of power. Moreover, it underscores the enduring complexity of politics as an occasion is revealed where parliament was used as a means to spread rumors and false accussations.

Overall, "Smoke and Mirrors" is a captivating and emotionally resonant episode that offers a nuanced portrayal of a bygone era. The episode is a shining example of a show that is as beautifully crafted as it is historically accurate, and it excels through its ability to tell compelling stories while highlighting particular elements of British history. It deepens one's understanding of the lead characters, Churchill and Venetia, and how they shaped the nation. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in politics, history, or anyone who just loves good storytelling.