THE GILDED AGE premiered two episodes from its second season, and so far, the show is “soapy,” spectacular, and sarcastic. It is nothing more than pure escapism, and I hope it doesn’t change.
The costumes were perfection. Stunning designs that drop your jaw in awe. And oh, those hats! I want to try every single one including the men’s creations. But then I would also want to wear the wigs as well. I just want to know how they sit on those humongous bustles, and how the actors managed a trip to the powder room. Can we get a little help here?
The production designers have outdone themselves. Palatial mansions, exquisite decor, and stairways make me drool with envy. They have nailed the look and feel of the ultra-rich during the late 20th century. Kudos.
The writing is sassy, contemptuous, and contains bantering barbs. The episodes are fast-paced filled with fancy dinners, meetings, and gossip that frames every scene. They are a bold, argumentative group with a cast that includes Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, Carrie Coon, Morgan Spector, Denee Benton, Louisa Jacobson, and Nathan Lane. Pretty impressive.
THE GILDED AGE is highly entertaining if you enjoy period pieces. The time was extremely judgmental. It highlighted the distinction between upstairs and downstairs to be sure. It is simply a delightful departure from everyday life. It is available to stream on Max.
