Nicholas Hoult's The Great: A Hilarious Historical Dramedy

Explore the hilarious and captivating historical dramedy, The Great, and discover Nicholas Hoult's outstanding performance as Peter III. This role not only showcased his acting range but also prepared him for his upcoming portrayal of Lex Luthor in Superman.

Before taking on the iconic role of Lex Luthor, Nicholas Hoult delivered a stellar performance in Hulu's "The Great," a show celebrated for its irreverent humor and satirical take on history. The series, which ran for three seasons, offered Hoult a unique opportunity to showcase his versatility as an actor.

In "The Great," Hoult portrays Peter III, the Emperor of Russia, a character that evolves significantly throughout the series. Initially presented as brutish and unlikeable, Peter gradually reveals layers of complexity, allowing Hoult to portray him with both antagonistic and sympathetic qualities.

This morally ambiguous portrayal demonstrates Hoult's ability to seamlessly transition between heroism and villainy, a skill that undoubtedly contributed to his casting as Lex Luthor. But what exactly is "The Great" about?

Unveiling the Story of "The Great"

"The Great" loosely chronicles the rise of Catherine the Great (Elle Fanning), the famous Russian Empress. The show presents a fictionalized account of her marriage to Peter, the Emperor of Russia, and her subsequent struggles for power. The series blends historical elements with dark comedy and satire, creating a unique and entertaining viewing experience.

While the show draws inspiration from historical events, it openly acknowledges its "occasional" relationship with the truth. This irreverent tone allows the actors to fully embrace their roles, and Hoult, in particular, seizes the opportunity to deliver a memorable performance.

As Catherine challenges Peter's traditional views and pushes for reform, their relationship becomes a central conflict in the series. Catherine even orchestrates a coup against him, with the help of allies within Peter's court.

Nicholas Hoult's Dual Role and Exceptional Range in The Great

One of the most impressive aspects of "The Great" is Nicholas Hoult's ability to portray not only Peter III but also his lookalike, Pugachev. Hoult masterfully distinguishes between the two characters, using subtle differences in mannerisms and behavior to create distinct personalities.

Even when Pugachev impersonates Peter, Hoult ensures that the audience can clearly differentiate between the two. This further highlights his exceptional range as an actor and solidifies his position as the standout performer in the show. How does this role connect to his casting as Lex Luthor?

Hoult himself has acknowledged that his experience on "The Great" helped him prepare for his role as Lex Luthor. He noted similarities in the writing style and humor between "The Great" and "Superman," which allowed him to connect with the character on a deeper level.

Being able to draw parallels between Lex and characters he had previously played gave Hoult a valuable foundation for envisioning his performance. He believed that incorporating some of the endearing qualities he brought to Peter III could work well for the style that James Gunn was aiming for in "Superman."

Despite its critical acclaim and numerous Emmy nominations, "The Great" was unfortunately canceled after three seasons, leaving some storylines unresolved. Nevertheless, the show remains a satisfying and compelling watch, thanks to the powerhouse performances of Hoult and Fanning.

While Nicholas Hoult may soon be known to audiences as Lex Luthor, his role as Peter III in The Great should not be overlooked. It's a testament to his acting prowess and a key stepping stone in his career, showcasing his ability to embody complex and multifaceted characters.