7 shows with swords, sex and politics to scratch your Game of Thrones itch

7. Da Vinci’s Demons

When you picture the Italian Renaissance, you usually think of a golden age of art and enlightenment. Well, this series aims to show the more cutthroat side of that period. It foregoes strict realism for a more stylized interpretation, the dark grunginess contrasting with the warmer colors, the swashbuckling antics killing any pretentiousness, and the anachronistic dialogue adding an undercurrent of cynicism to the often-romanticized Renaissance.

The series basks in the depravity and danger of the avant-garde, which is fitting considering how bold innovators and artists have been perceived by their peers throughout history. Da Vinci himself embodies that roguishness well, reimagined as a Sherlock-esque genius with a rock star persona. Though that may frustrate some in how it sticks out, it oddly works because of that reason.

At the same time, the boldness here is also a source of fear. While this sometimes comes from hints of unknown mysticism (which results in both trite prophesizing and pulpy adventure), it’s more thematically potent when it stems from the wrath of people paranoid or envious of the artist’s creations.

Most gripping of all is when the fear comes from the toll that artistry takes on the mind. It’s nothing new. Works like Slings & Arrows have delved into such a premise before, but framing Da Vinci’s brilliance as a burden is no less effective here. Creativity and the unknown can be a double-edged sword, and this series should be commended for showing that while remaining an entertaining ride.