Early Years of ‘Game of Thrones’

While it is difficult to imagine now, Game of Thrones did not achieve immediate success. The show initially appealed to a niche audience, slowly gaining popularity over its first few seasons. However, once it reached peak popularity in the mid-2010s, its influence on the television landscape became profound and undeniable.

A Surge in Genre Television

By the mid to late 2010s, the success of Game of Thrones led to a proliferation of similar genre television series that aimed to capture its audience. Network executives sought to capitalize on its popularity, resulting in a wave of new shows characterized by medieval themes, political drama, and ample action.

Some notable examples of shows that emerged during this period include:

• Spartacus
• Vikings
• Into the Badlands
• The Last Kingdom
• The Witcher

Among these productions was Black Sails, which aired on Starz for four seasons starting in 2014. This series stands as an interesting addition to the genre during the Game of Thrones boom.

A Deep Dive into ‘Black Sails’

Black Sails is an action-driven drama that immerses viewers in the life of 16th-century pirates. Unlike traditional portrayals of piracy found in popular media, this series provides a raw and unfiltered depiction of the era, shedding light on the brutal facets of life at sea.

Key themes and highlights of Black Sails include:

• Realistic and gritty representation of piracy, avoiding the fanciful elements commonly associated with Disney’s pirate narratives.
• A compelling storyline featuring violence, adventure, and complex characters that explore survival and ambition in a tumultuous era.
• Artful cinematography that captures the essence of the pirate lifestyle, making it an engaging viewing experience.

Enduring Appeal

Despite its reliance on common genre tropes—bloodshed and dramatics—Black Sails successfully captivates audiences and remains a worthy binge-watch for fans of the genre. Its durability in the overrunning sea of medieval shows is a testament to its engaging content and distinctive approach.