One of the episode's highlights is Mountbatten's cold, analytical lecture on the five requirements for a successful coup in a modern democracy, ultimately concluding that it is impossible without the "legitimacy" provided by the Crown . Historical Accuracy vs. Dramatic License
Parallel to Elizabeth’s escape is the brewing discontent among the British elite following the devaluation of the pound by Prime Minister Harold Wilson . The_Crown_3x05_WEBMux_Ita_Eng_5_1_Earine
Director Christian Schwochow uses the bright, open landscapes of America and France to contrast the stifling, "pseudo-fascistic" lighting of the dark rooms where the coup is being plotted back in London . The Political Thriller: Mountbatten’s Ambition One of the episode's highlights is Mountbatten's cold,
Critics highlight the episode’s exploration of Elizabeth's "unlived life" . In Kentucky, she candidly admits that breeding and training horses is what she was "born to do," reflecting a rare moment of vulnerability and regret over her forced role as monarch . A significant portion of the episode follows Queen
A significant portion of the episode follows Queen Elizabeth (Olivia Colman) on a month-long trip to France and Kentucky with her racing manager, Lord "Porchey" Porchester .
While Cecil King did meet with Mountbatten in 1968 to discuss a potential takeover, historical accounts suggest Mountbatten shut the idea down as "rank treachery" almost immediately . The show extends this for dramatic tension, having him seriously weigh the option until the Queen intervenes .
Charles Dance’s portrayal of Lord "Dickie" Mountbatten is frequently praised as "perfectly cast" . After being ousted as Chief of the Defence Staff, a purposeless Mountbatten is approached by Cecil King to lead an emergency government .