TV SERIES REVIEW
Citadel: Diana
TV-14 -     

Genre: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 6 x 45m episodes
Developed by: Alessandro Fabbri
Showrunner: Gina Gardini
Director(s): Arnaldo Catinari
Writer(s): Alessandro Fabbri, Ilaria Bernardini, Laura Colella, Gianluca Bernardini, Giordana Mari
Cast: Matilda De Angelis, Lorenzo Cervasio, Maurizio Lombardi, Julia Piaton, Thekla Reuten, Giordana Faggiano, Daniele Paoloni, Bernhard Schütz, Filippo Nigro
Where To Watch: coming to Prime Video on October 10, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome to Milan, 2030, where the cutting-edge meets the cryptic in the sensational new series CITADEL: DIANA, a spin-off of the 2023 American series CITADEL. This narrative whirlwind follows Diana Cavalieri, portrayed by Matilda De Angelis, as she maneuvers through a treacherous world riddled with espionage and alliances. As a double agent pinned between the colossal forces of the Citadel and the Manticore syndicate, Diana’s journey through Milan’s streets mirrors a psychological maze she must navigate, making the city itself a silent conspirator in a plot brimming with tension and intrigue.

From the opening scene, CITADEL: DIANA captures the essence of classic spy thrillers while spinning its distinctive take on the genre. Under the guidance of director Arnaldo Catinari, the series elevates the genre with a meticulous blend of psychological depth and pulse-pounding action. As the stakes escalate, so does the complexity of Diana’s character, whose internal conflicts battle against the external turmoil she faces, crafting each episode into a tightly packed parcel of suspense and revelation.

The dramatic tension is further amplified by Lorenzo Cervasio’s portrayal of Edo Zani, whose fraught relationship with Diana tests the boundaries of trust in a world where loyalty is more valuable than money. Their tenuous partnership navigates a sea of potential betrayals, with each decision underscoring the precarious nature of their existences within and against the powerful backdrop of legacies and syndicate politics.

What truly sets CITADEL: DIANA apart are the meticulously staged action sequences against the rugged beauty of Sicily’s Cretto di Gibellina. These sequences are visually stunning and choreographed to perfection, ensuring that the thrill of the chase complements rather than overshadows the narrative’s layered complexities. De Angelis brings a visceral authenticity to Diana, merging vulnerability with ferocity in a performance that reshapes the mold of the action heroine. The dynamic between De Angelis and Cervasio consistently fires up the narrative momentum, their chemistry a linchpin in the series’ ability to carry the series.

This series embeds a genuine piece of Italian culture within every scene. Backed by the Italian Ministry of Culture, CITADEL: DIANA mixes local scenery and sensibilities into an exquisite and grounded narrative, making the series a cultural touchstone as much as a thrilling adventure.

CITADEL: DIANA expands the universe established by its predecessor while introducing fresh characters and stories that enhance the established world. This series respects the groundwork laid before it and paves new paths, offering fans and newcomers a compelling blend of drama and action.

CITADEL: DIANA is a testament to the enduring allure of spy narratives, infused with enough innovation to keep it vibrant amidst a genre crowded with contenders. It is a riveting blend of action and emotional storytelling, anchored by a stellar lead performance that marks a significant evolution in spy drama. De Angelis not only lights up the screen but also brings depth to ensure that CITADEL: DIANA stands out as not just another series but also a pivotal entry in the genre. If you enjoy this series, keep your eyes peeled for another spin-off coming in about a month titled CITADEL: HONEY BUNNY, taking the action to India.

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[photo courtesy of PRIME VIDEO, AGBO, AMAZON STUDIOS, CATTLEYA, MIDNIGHT RADIO]

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