© 2022 Lux Vide. All Rights Reserved.Leonardo da Vinci was vegetarian long before it was in fashion. He also found himself playing a central role in quite a few murders that involved poisoning, and experienced his fair share of legal trouble. That is according to Leonardo, the eight-episode drama (premiering on The CW Tuesday, Aug. 16, at 8pm ET/PT) exploring the secrets and genius of da Vinci (Aidan Turner).
Set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy (and filmed in Rome), the series dives into da Vinci’s life, work and personal struggles while showcasing how he develops into an unparalleled genius and renowned polymath whose work overturned the established order. The series is positioned as a murder/mystery.
Each episode is bookended with Stefano Giraldi (executive producer Freddie Highmore) questioning various people, including da Vinci, about the death of Caterina da Cremona (Matilda De Angelis), a close friend of the artist.
In between are flashbacks, beginning in Florence before moving to Milan, that trace da Vinci’s work as an apprentice, painter and sculptor, among other things.
In addition to murder, there is plenty of intrigue, romance, betrayal and politics to keep things interesting. The scenery is striking and there are many spectacles to admire, including Leonardo’s attempt to impress Ludovico Sforza (James D’Arcy), Milanese nobility, with a lavish performance that is interrupted with a public execution.
The murder/mystery is appropriately enigmatic and da Vinci’s journeys through Florence and Milan are alluring, regardless of how much they stick to the truth.
Giancarlo Giannini and Alessandro Sperduti costar.
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