What's it about?
Set in 16th century France, the story follows teen years of Mary Stuart - when at the age of 15 she arrives to France to marry the dauphin Francis.
Why watch it?
If you're into teen/soap drama - easy going with occasional dark episodes (like the plague) and mysticism; if you don't know anything about Mary, queen of Scots; for Catherine de Medici played by Megan Follows; if you aren't religious and easily offended by historical inaccuracies; the show does address rape and being in a committed relationship afterwards.
Stars
Ratings
7,5 on IMDb
57% on Rotten Tomatoes
Critics Reception
It is one of the most criticised costume dramas based on real historical people and events. The main reason for criticism, apart from dooming all CW shows as bad, is the obvious historical inaccuracy in terms of costumes, timeline and the fact that the show is less based on the historical figure Mary Stuart and is more of a soap/teen drama in medieval style.
Historical Background
Although it is based on Mary Stuart's life in France before her husband Francis' early death from ear infection, there are many inaccuracies and a strong element of mysticism. A big part in the plot plays the famous seer Nostradamus.
Reviews
Reign: TV Review, The Hollywood Reporter
TV Review: CW’s ‘Reign’, Variety
Even a Doomed Queen Just Wants to Have Fun, The New York Times