The first episode of Black Sails is good. But after the hype, I was wondering if the show was really as good as I thought it was going to be. But after watching the second and third episodes, I realized that Black Sails isn’t just something special, it has the potential to be something really great.
Taking place prior to the events of the literary classic Treasure Island (by Robert Louis Stevenson), the series serves as a prequel to the book, showing us a young John Silver, Billy Bones and the infamous Captain Flint, along with real life pirates like Charles Vane, Jack Rackham, and Anne Bonny.
Taking place in 1715 in the Caribbean, most of the episodes at this point occur on the island of Nassau in the Bahamas. The show gives a glimpse of how life was during that time, while also giving us a hefty dose of political intrigue, nudity, and violence. In short, it’s exactly what you’d expect from a series on a premium channel.
And of all the incredible shows available right now – from House of Cards to Game of Thrones to The Walking Dead, I have to say that Black Sails is my favorite. Game of Thrones comes in at a close second, but I’d have to place Black Sails ahead of that simply because I have no clue what’s going to happen next (I’ve read all the books in Game of Thrones). I vaguely remember Treasure Island, so it’s hard to piece together what happens and how we get there.
Also, I like that the creators chose to weave elements of fact with fiction. It creates a more authentic experience, yet frees them from some of the constraints of history. Despite that, there’s a looming sense that for many of the characters of Black Sails, things aren’t going to end well. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as some of the them are horrible people. But they’re believable and flawed, just like real people, and as characters, that’s exactly what makes them compelling. As each episode unveils its secrets and forwards the plot, we’re given small tidbits and breadcrumbs that tell or hint at how some of these men and women came to the current situation the viewers find them in. In some ways it’s tragic. And that makes some damn good entertainment.
This show literally has it all – great acting, interesting characters, impressive visuals and an amazing musical score. The last elements I mentioned – visuals and music, are what really sell Black Sails. The island of Nassau looks incredible. The sets and costumes are simply beautiful, giving a sense of of the time while simultaneously providing a lived-in feel.
And the music! It’s from Bear McCreary of Battlestar Galactica fame! Bear has certainly grown as a composer. All the songs in Blacksails are layered with multiple instruments, evoking feelings of love, loss, and adventure. Which in the end, is exactly what the show is about.
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There’s something very special about Blacksails. Here’s hoping it has a long and healthy life, leading right into Treasure Island as the creators hope to do. Until then, I think I may have to dust off my copy and catch up on some reading! 
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