BBC's 'Renaissance: The Blood and the Beauty' Explores Art and Rivalry in Turbulent Italy

The three-part docu-drama focuses on the lives and rivalries of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael during a violent and transformative era.

The series, airing on BBC Two, examines the intersection of art, politics, and personal rivalries in Renaissance Italy through the lens of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.
Charles Dance stars as the elder Michelangelo, narrating his life and career, while younger versions of the artists are portrayed by lesser-known actors.
The show blends historical reenactments, narrated reflections, and insights from contemporary artists and historians, including Antony Gormley and Dr. Kate Lister.
Critics have noted the series' ambitious scope but criticized its limited storytelling and uneven production quality, with much of the budget seemingly focused on casting Dance.
The series highlights how iconic works like the 'Mona Lisa' and 'David' emerged from a period of political upheaval and intense artistic competition.