Black Sails Season 4 Episode 10 'XXXVIII.' Finale REACTION!! (Part 2)

[@NikkiStevenReact]

Full, un-cut watch-a-long reaction: bit.ly/3EmBW2n

[@NolaNerd]

Sounds like Stephen is trying to line up a guest.

[@gemelwalters2942]

I'm happy for Nikki but there's a pretty good chance Silver killed Flint lol

[@Rated314]

Guys... Billy survives and makes it off of Skeleton Island, with a mysterious chest. We know this because Black Sails is a backdoor prequel to Treasure Island.

[@jacquelinemiles9840]

I am so happy that you two finally got to see this episode. It is so sad that it’s over but wow this episode was incredible. The series is incredible. I’m so happy you two liked it.

[@0786RICARDO]

Why do you guys always do 2 separate videos?

[@michalpannkuk]

And that ladies and gentleman, is the most underrated show of all time.

[@jamesholland5761]

Yes very underrated but I believe The Expanse probably holds that title! IMO

[@Александр-ы9в2к]

@@Kindred008 It's very underrated. I know this word is overused, but it fits in case of Black Sails. It didn't have any major accolades, even for acting, and ratings were low.

[@barbararommy]

Totally agree 😢

[@xoPanchitaxo]

HEAVILY UNDER WATCHED! Every chance I get to tell people WATCH BLACK SAILS if they say they looking for a new show. Then I have people tell me "I couldn't get into it" ....... --____-- w h a t

[@johnnyskinwalker4095]

what is frustrating is that nobody knows it exist. yet everybody that watch it loves it

[@rachelespiritu4215]

I've always said- it takes a good show to make you cry tears of sadness, but it takes a *great* show to make you cry tears of happiness. After four seasons, our boy Flint deserves one minute of happiness in his miserable, godforsaken life. This is an ending worth crying for.

[@leahmarie112]

So true! You know the show has taken you in a journey and done an amazing job at telling the character’s story when you’re so happy for them you can’t help but cry!

[@alizzybookling]

"An ending worth crying for." Couldn't have said it better myself. Gods, what a show.

[@paragrafenreiterinn]

Oh the irony of Jack, who is all about legacy, signing off on what would become T H E pirate flag, the Jolly Roger, with a simple "it's fine", Always gets me. Such a fantastic wrap up to this outstanding show.

[@nelmuppet]

I think a lot about a Flint speech in early S1 about Odysseus, and how he wanted to be able to walk so far inland that the oar became a shovel and he could leave the sea behind - and there's Thomas at the end, holding that shovel for him. I swing back and forth between whether I prefer the Flint surviving/Flint dying interpretation, but as many people have already said, it doesn't really matter. A story is true, a story is untrue - how we believe it ended is what we take away from the art, and that's what matters. The way they managed to do that and leave it so ambiguous and so impactful at the same time and it not feel like a cop out? Don't know another show that's ever been able to do that. I think it has to be purely for the emphatic point they've made for all four seasons about the importance of storytelling itself. They put the work in to earn that ending, and that's why it works. For the first time ever in this rewatch (of the Many I've done for this show), I've thought a lot about how Flint taking his name from that old man that disappeared back into the sea, kind of how the name lived beyond the mortal man himself, and then now thinking about how even if Flint died, or disappeared or whatever, his name and his legacy lived on. In Treasure Island we never see him, only hear of him. It's his treasure, Silver's parrot is named Flint, Billy Bones' stories etc etc - he lurks there, still as powerful as if he were present, just by name. Yet another layer I did not consider before re: the themes of storytelling, history, legacy, all beyond the mortal flesh truth. Like Jack said, it's got to transcend - I'm sure I have a point lurking in there somewhere, but this show is infinitely rewatchable for this very reason. So much to pull apart, to try and understand. It's a masterpiece. Highly recommend the Fathoms Deep podcast, especially the episodes where the actors talk about their characters and the show - it's wonderful stuff. So glad you enjoyed!

[@jays4402]

Speaking of the podcast my favourite interpretation of the Flint/Thomas scene comes from it where that scene is a representation of them meeting in the afterlife, in the Elysian Fields from Greek mythology. Very poetic for me and fits with all the other mythological undertones throughout the show starting with as you mentioned the story of Odysseus back in ep 2.

[@ljsilver1692]

@@jays4402 I love that interpretation too. It marries the logical ending for me with the poetic

[@Leo_ofRedKeep]

@@jays4402 What? Is the afterlife just slave labour? Damn it, dying's the last thing I'll do!

[@jays4402]

@@Leo_ofRedKeep The physical framework of that scene has to tie into Silver's story. But the beauty of art is you can look deeper, consider grander themes and come up with your own interpretations. Highly recommend the Greek mythology episode of the podcast that goes into much deeper analysis of that entire sequence and how it parallels entering into Elysium.

[@Drewe223]

This remains my favorite show of all time. The scene between Silver and Flint in the forest is one of the best monologues I have ever seen, both in writing and performance. Toby Stephens deserved every award for this. John Silver had one of the best character arcs in all of television. Jack "winning" is so perfect. He's a fantastic character. I am also on the side that thinks Silver killed Flint, but seeing how happy you were makes me happy so let's just go with he is alive.

[@jays4402]

@@Wallopy_Joe That conversation was the climax of the entire story for me.

[@Drewe223]

@Ali Chaudhry That's awesome to hear, man.

[@wrenlinwhitelight3007]

"this show is like poetry." Steven what a beautiful way to sum up Black Sails. This and GoT's with you two has been a genuine privilege.

[@gamerhd6471]

Ha gayyyyyyyyyyyyyy

[@GeekRaj]

Flints war was for no reason his lover was alive this whole time. He murdered all of those people for no reason. Its a garbage ending. I get why Black sails is so less known. Its because of its garbage ending. He murdered his crew people, and other people for no reason. His lover was alive this whole time. All of the things he did became meaningless.

[@2jz-boi]

@@GeekRaj bro he didn't know he was alive lmao that's the whole point of his Character

[@awesomness36]

@@GeekRajhe still had reasons for what he did and is a gray character just like everyone on the show. Calm down

[@martinbmary7504]

Kudos to Toby Stephens who played one of the most amazing characters on TV. I mean all the actors and characters on this show are amazing but Flint Is my personal favourite too.

[@HeyRowanEllis]

it's been so brilliant following along with your reactions - so happy you loved the finale as much as the rest of us - agree with the other comments saying to check out a the Treasure Island movie (or book) to see how they included those characters - and The Fathoms Deep Podcast which has incredible interviews and analysis. Also cheeky but humble offering of my video essay on Black Sails, and specifically what worked so well about the finale: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iX6pnZ9plq6Vo9E

[@spaceseijo]

In a show about narratives, it makes SO MUCH SENSE to end it with a choose-your-own-ending. A story is true, a story is untrue. We'll never know if Silver is telling the truth or just creating a narrative Madi and the viewer can accept. It's up to the viewer to decide for themselves. HOW INCREDIBLE IS THAT WRITING? How is it possible to create such an amazing and compelling story and follow it through to the ending, without losing any of the quality.

[@inky_plinky]

Listen, I know most people argue in favour of the ending where Silver kills Flint, and I can see how it makes the most sense, but I just can't settle for that ending, I can't. I don't care if it's foolish and naive, the ending where Flint gets to reunite with Thomas is the ending I choose to believe in. I just love Flint too much not to. I choose to believe that Silver only symbolically killed Flint, allowing James McGraw to live on, and I don't care what anyone says, I think that's a valid interpretation. Idk, I guess I'm just tired of sad and/or dead gays in fiction........ At least there is no arguing that Max and Anne got a hopeful ending together so that's cool, at least.

[@gemelwalters2942]

lol how many sad and or dead gays are there and who's counting. I just find it odd that you're defining them by sexuality. The whole reason so many people love Flint is his sexuality is not what defines him. He's just a well written "character" and him being dead doesn't change that.

[@charleyMD17]

@@gemelwalters2942 There's a shit ton of sad and dead gays in fiction and queer people have been counting for years. It's a troupe with its own name, "Bury Your Gays". It's a long standing trend in shows, movies and books that gay characters either die or they end up sad and alone with no happiness ever for them. It is an extremely tiresome troupe for LGBTQ+ people to see themselves repeatedly portrayed that way in media. There's countless straight couples/characters who get HEA, precious few LGBTQ+ who do so it's disingenuous to act like it shouldn't be noted.

[@gemelwalters2942]

@@charleyMD17 there's a shit ton of a lot of minority groups that are sad or dead in film. But if your sole focus was on what the characters sexuality is then it was a terribly written character to begin with and that's likely why they died. I don't ever leave a movie or series thinking "I really like that character because he/she's straight". Walter White died at the end of Breaking bad, another well written lead character. Whether ppl were happy or sad that he died, their take away wasn't based on him being straight. You quite clearly are focusing on the wrong thing, I'm certain there are legitimate concerns in the LGBTQ community but this is a bit of a reach.

[@charleyMD17]

@@gemelwalters2942 I agree, there is a shit ton of minorities that get shafted. That's the whole point. It's not because they were poorly written but because the predominately straight white men producing shows/movies view them as expendable. Minority groups want to see characters that represent their communities onscreen. But when 90% of LGBTQ+ characters end in misery, sorrow and death, you take notice. You also get pretty sick of seeing that and want better. Walter White died because he was a horrible person who did terrible things and it caught up with him. On the other hand I could give you a laundry list of LGBTQ+ characters who were not Walter White's but still got off'ed because the show wanted some "drama" and saw them as the nonessential one. There's plenty of straight characters who end unhappily but there's also countless ones who do not. The same can't be said for LGBTQ+ characters. There is more misery and death than happiness for their stories.

[@catastrophic8993]

My approach to this ending has always been based on Jack's quote: "The stories we choose to believe, those are the ones that survive" This ending is left ambiguous on purpose and no one should make you feel invalid for wanting a happy ending for the characters you love, instead of a devastating one. And btw I too like to believe in the happy ending! ☺

[@jays4402]

Thanks again guys for such an amazing reaction series and all the hard work put in to produce it. Nikki, your heartfelt emotions for these characters have truly enhanced the viewing experience. Steven, your love for the storytelling is joyous to watch and your editing of these jammed packed episodes are freaking incredible. Greatest conclusion to the greatest show for me. We the audience have witnessed the power of stories throughout the show and yet at the end, the writers allow us to experience that theme directly by telling us one last story through its greatest storyteller. Whether it’s true or untrue.. “The stories we want to believe, those are the ones that survive” What I also find uniquely amazing about this journey is the transition from a grounded political war drama to almost a mythical tale about legendary pirates, haunted islands and buried treasure. Black Sails deserves to be watched by the entire world. I underestimated this show, and it turned out to be an incredible gift.

[@Jukettaja]

"Even if you could kill me, how are you going to explain it to her ... Even you cannot construct a story to make her forgive you that" ~ Captain Flint ~

[@jakehoward1160]

This show had the same satisfying feeling of finishing a long puzzle. You just sit there marveling at the beautiful picture you invested so much time putting together. Other shows are like finishing a puzzle and to your horror you realize you've lost pieces and the puzzle is never fully completed. There were no lost pieces with this show. It was a masterpiece.

[@TheRedLittleGirl]

I see a lot of people kind of talking patronisingly about the idea that Flint might have lived. That it’s naive to believe that, and the more mature thing is to believe in the “tragic” ending. I just fundamentally disagree with that. The writers left it ambiguous for a reason - both interpretations are valid - but also makes a point about the story we choose to believe is what matters. And if you choose to believe that Flint died, well, maybe you just like tragedy or you find that most poetically resonant - which is fine! But it’s not naive or silly to believe in a potentially “happier” ending (though it’s hardly happier for silver, he still suffers the same consequences). That just means you choose an ending that brings a little more hope into the world. And that’s not naive. I’m just pretty tired of the idea that happiness/goodness is inherently more naive than tragedy. I personally can see both, but I honestly think that Flint living is the more poetically resonant, which is what I tend to go with. It’s circular - and it brings it back to Flint’s Odysseus story from s1. Even the shovel is there. Anyway, great reaction series that I only caught on to at the last few episodes - so here goes to go back and rewatch it all 😁

[@LeoAndrares]

Exactly what i think, you just took the words out of my mouth, thank you. The writers themselves have already stated that Flint's end is ambiguous, there is no "right" ending, there a clues and hints that can lead to BOTH endings and "I" want to believe in the happy one, and by the looks of it Nikki and Steve wants it too, so i see no sense in trying to make up their mind about it saying that the one showed in the show is "MORE likely" a lie, because that's not true, nothing wrong with informing them about the ending being ambiguous tho, that's great

[@johnnyskinwalker4095]

Both are happy endings if you think about it. In both cases he meets the one he loves at the end. Him dying just makes it a little more in line with the spirit of the show that there's always consequences and goes in line with Silver's main character trait as a teller of stories.

[@Leo_ofRedKeep]

There is a Santa Claus ending full of holes and a logical one. Then there are kids who want to believe they are both equally valid and authors who decided to let them believe in it a little longer, because it's not a riddle if it comes with its solution.

[@TheRedLittleGirl]

@@johnnyskinwalker4095 I think that's a fair way of looking at it. I guess I just personally don't see that as the "spirit" of the show so to say - but like I said, I do enjoy both interpretations, I kind of just tend to fall on the other side. :) Oh, and I find a certain... narrative irony in the idea of Silver for once telling a truth and no one believing him - as a consequence for all his lying. Kind of boy who cried wolf vibe.

[@TheRedLittleGirl]

​@@Leo_ofRedKeep I have to wonder, did you set out to be the MOST patronizing just to help me prove my point? Lol. Anyway, if your take-away from the show and the creators was that you should go and be snotty to people online who think differently than you, I'd guess there's not much interest in discussion there either. I'm curious if you actually /have/ checked out what authors and actors alike have said about the ending? But just for the benefit of the doubt... while I don't personally agree that one ending is "full of holes" or a great leap of imagination and the other is a "logical one" - I also don't really see how that matters. It's a narrative - more than that, it's a narrative about narratives. About fictional narratives. I think forcing it into a shape where it has to make logical sense is reductive. There's a literary point to the show not being historically accurate - or always logical, for that matter. I don't think it necessarily needs to be. For some people, that's very important. For others, it's not. And Black Sails is a narrative for many people - which is why we can have different interpretations and in the text, they are both plausible. I'm not saying either ending has conclusive evidence - they don't, all we can go on is what's seen on screen - but I think there's something beautiful in a show telling you that the narrative you choose is important and why you choose said narrative is also important. As long as one can argue why they think one way or the other, why one narrative would have a greater impact for them personally, why it would be an important story to tell, that's all that really matters - to me, at least. And I think both endings could tell potentially important stories.

[@ljsilver1692]

Thank you Nikki and Steven for sharing this amazing, breathtaking journey with us all. As a Black Sails fan who wants this show to be seen by everyone, it means a lot that you guys decided to react to it. Steven said this show is poetry and this was a poetically tragic ending for me and perfect for this story. Whether you believe Silver's story or not, it is a love story as you guys said just as it is a tragedy. It's all encompassing and essentially Shakespearean. Overall Silver is my favorite character as I connect with him more, but I feel Flint is the 'greatest' character. I read/heard someone describe Flint as the person we would like to be - a person that would sacrifice anything to make the world a better place but Silver is the person most of us are - we just want to make the most of this life with our loved ones. What amazing characters. What a story. What a reaction series.

[@ATC43]

That is an incredible interpretation of the characters Flint and Silver. The character we would love to be vs the one we actually are. Could write an entire fucking thesis on this show, goddamn.

[@ljsilver1692]

@@ATC43 I know right? I feel bad because I genuinely can't remember who said it, but that analysis always stuck with me

[@bushidoblvck_]

@@ljsilver1692 Luke Arnold said that in a Fathoms Deep interview.

[@ljsilver1692]

@@bushidoblvck_ Thank you! That sounds about right.

[@mjinba07]

Did you folks not know that this was written as a prequel to the classic adventure Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson?? That's why Billy Bones is still alive at the end, and why the characters are who they are... Flint, Long John Silver, Israel Hands, Ben Gunn... all originated with Treasure Island.

[@alizzybookling]

Emotional watching Nikki react like that to Flint and Thomas because I remember my first watch of this show and feeling so much for the character in that moment. The emotional payoff is unlike anything else I've felt for a character in recent memory. One of the greatest hidden gems in television history. So glad you guys reacted to this one. ❤️ "This show is like poetry..." Indeed, my friend. Indeed. (Side note, I'd like to believe that Silver could never kill Flint; their bond was too deep and personal for Silver to do that. I choose to believe that what happened was the truth and that Flint was the only person Silver would have shown compassion for like that because he believed Flint deserved it.)

[@caaaatchup]

That flag they show Jack at the end is the "official" piirate flag that everyone knows aka "Jolly Roger". So Jack still became a part of history. :)

[@iseetreesofgreen3367]

And Jack Sparrow from POTC is based on Jack Rackham IRL I believe

[@danielkitts9685]

Mary Read known as "Mark" was a real pirate who served under Jack Rackham with Anne Bonny. It was also on Jack's ship that the famous Skull and Crossbones flag was created.

[@F1stzz]

*Skull & Crossed swords The original Jolly Roger was created by Edward England.

[@ericsantucci6934]

12:00 - "Mark Read" is actually Mary Read, another very famous female pirate like Anne Bonny known for disguising herself as a man to get onto pirate crews. She, Anne and Jack were actually something of a trio, so it was nice to get that little cameo at the end there, even though I kinda wish she'd shown up sooner, maybe if we'd gotten another season.

[@keeganbate8935]

I'm okay with it only because I would be heartbroken to see Anne's last words to Jack from history in this show. They're pretty biting.

[@ericsantucci6934]

@@keeganbate8935 Yeah that would have been out of place with the characterization they got in this show

[@ericsantucci6934]

@@keeganbate8935 But I think my point was just that we could've gotten Mary Read sooner. Not that things needed to necessarily end on the show the way they ended for Jack, Anne and Mary historically.

[@Forever_orwhatever]

Best show ever! 10/10 Loved it. Thanks for the reactions, was so fun seeing you guys enjoying it like I did.

[@freakinforrest8398]

The ending of his show is written so well, especially if you are familiar with treasure island. It just ties in so well. In the conversation between Flint and Silver on the island Flint mentions how one day Silver will regret this decision and realize that he left his importance and opportunity along with the chest in the ground which I think ties in so well to the plot of treasure where Silver searches to reclaim that chest. This show honestly could not have a better ending.

[@a.paulafernandes]

This was exactly my reaction to Flint at long last reuniting with Thomas. There were few times i've sobbed so hard.

[@Shadowz1323]

This is my favorite show because of how it ended. It was just like Steven said, "poetry". I loved how emotional she got when James and Thomas were reunited ❤️. I love y'alls content 🍻🏴‍☠️💜

[@No8Named8Shadow]

One of my favorite finales. Beautifully written. My take on the finale is that Flint is dead. I totally understand how it can be viewed as him alive and him as dead, but for me, it makes the most sense that Silver killed him. I always saw the place where Flint and Thomas reunite as a metaphor for heaven with Israel Hands as either the grim reaper or Charon. I believe that that place does exist in their world, but Thomas wasn't there. Hiding a lie inside a truth as it were. Then, when Silver is talking to Madi I think the cinematography is playing with shadows in a way that evokes Flint's "There be dragons" speech. And how I see that scene is that it sets up this expectation of Silver weaving a story that will keep everyone near the candle and away from the darkness (which based on Flint's speech we know to be the source/truth). Anyway, it's a fun ending because everyone can get different perspectives out of it. I guess I'm just a pessimist.

[@kateb5716]

I just watched the show for the first time ever recently and I had a very similar reaction - this show is criminally underrated and I am actually looking forward to rewatching. I have never rewatched a tv show before in my life!

[@HNCS2006]

This show has amazing rewatch value. Some episodes actually improve upon second watch

[@bdbrobst]

I adore this show. Thanks for the thoughtful, passionate reactions.

[@jirachipl8193]

So proud of you being people who fight for this show now like I did for you!

[@thoso1973]

".... It's fine...." Crew holds up what will become recognized as THE Jolly Roger for all eternity. Excellent ending to an excellent series!

[@LY43537]

I was so excited when "Mark" Reed (read: Mary Reed) showed up. *big grin* Gives them an opening to start a whole new show starring Mary and Anne. It would be so epic!

[@Patrick-xv6qv]

And what makes Jack's ending so much better is two things. Historically jack Rackham actually came up the that flag design and its the most recognized symbol of being a Pirate. Jack's legacy does live on lol. The second thing is the new pirate they welcomed was Mary Read. Anne Bonny and Mary Read sailed with Jack Rackham. When Jack Rackham was captured and hung, they were going to hang both Anne Bonnie and Mary Read also, but both woman claimed to be pregnant so they were just imprisoned. Mary Read died in prison from fever and the fate of Anne Bonny was never recorded.

[@icholas1527]

Now that it's over plug for the 'Fathom's Deep' podcast. Lot's of great interviews with cast, production people and episode deep dives. Every one worth a listen if you love Black Sails.

[@aquakid360]

I was absolutely Nikki my first (and every) watch through of this show… Just boo hoo-ing like a maniac at the Plantation reunion. Brilliant writing.

[@tonyytime8200]

Watch this show because u guys were reacting to it… I just finished and omgggggg this show was AMAZINGGGGG

[@HNCS2006]

:) yep.

[@leahmarie112]

“A story is true, a story is untrue..” this theme is important to the ending of this story. Was Silver just telling a story about Flint’s “retirement”? We know he is a good story teller. In the jungle after Flint and Silver’s talk you see birds get disturbed by something and fly away, and then Silver’s men walk to towards the forest as if they knew they had to go do something. Was it a gunshot? In the end it’s great because Jack’s ending monologue tells you that it’s ok to believe the story that you want. And if enough people believe it, it becomes true.

[@isaibravo3917]

There´s actually a lot of fans that think that Silver was lying and he does kill Flint, i heard something about making sense with treasure island specially because Flint never gave up the pearls aaaand i also read a while ago about a fan that in a convention asked Toby Stephens what he thinked of the ending and he thinks that Silver made all up for Mady.

[@leahmarie112]

@@isaibravo3917 yep! I believe that Silver killed Flint. It’s tragic but it fits.

[@newnawlins]

And what makes this creative, amazing show so much fun is it is the preamble to Robert Louis Stevenson’s book Treasure Island. The main character meets Billy Bones and we meet a much older Long John Silver. This was the classic book that truly introduced people to pirates.

[@Mikkamel]

If you want to be even more impressed with the writers, remember that this whole show is a prequel to the adventure novel Treasure Island from 1883, and that they managed to balance the writing so that it was never disappointing or boring to people who knew a lot of things about the ending from the start. I knew from the first mention of the Urca gold that it was going to end up in the ground on an island with Flint killing members of his own crew there. Silver had to lose a leg, and some characters are effectively immortal, because I know they're alive 20 years later when the book takes place. And even knowing all this, the show is still just as exciting.

[@kalandkarazor-el3088]

I choose to and will always think Flint got his happy ending. But I don't argue with anyone who thinks Silver just shot Flint, because he probably did lol. He's a master storyteller and he just told his greatest tale about sparing Flint and saving all these lives from a war Perfect is thrown around too much but I believe this show to be nearly perfect. Everything is so well done you can't sum it up in a few sentences. My favorite show ever....thank you 2 so much for reacting to it. I know it'll never bring in big views or numbers but some of the best fans you'll have are Black Sails fans We didn't steer you wrong with this one and another similar show in quality that nobody talks about is Penny Dreadful. Another masterclass in television that gets largely ignored. Maybe a few months down the line, check it out✌

[@charleyMD17]

Commence rewatch now! 😁 The show gets better every time you revisit it. My feelings change about the characters & the finale on rewatches, tho I mean that in a good way. The first time I watched it I was like "Wow, this ended so much happier than I thought it would". But after it sat with me a bit, I realized it wasn't nearly the happy ending I first thought it to be. Silver is an inherently selfish person. He told us that early on in the show, that he was in it for himself and that hasn't changed by the end. What he does to Flint and Madi is crappy. He could walk away from this war anytime he wanted, he could because he's a straight white man. But what Madi and Flint where fighting for was so much bigger. Silver was wrong to take their choice from them. For that reason, I don't believe Madi can ever truly forgive him. She might try to work things out but he's damaged their relationship forever. I disagree with Stephen on Vane being proud of what Jack did. I think Vane would *hate* Jack's decision. I recall what Vane said to Flint at the end of season 3 about England/civilization, "Give us your submission and we'll give you what you want". I think Vane would see Jack as selling out in the end. Deep down Jack knows that too because he told Anne a few episodes ago that Charles was dead, he had to do what was best for them now. Flint's end monologue about how pirates will become the monsters in the stories told to children is heartbreaking because the next chapter in Silver's life is "Treasure Island" -- a story written for children, narrated by a child, where Long John Silver is the bad guy. Silver's "I'm not the villain you fear I am". But he is and will continue to be.

[@hardybryan]

How wrong was it really to take a war from Flint and Madi that no one else actually wanted to fight and which they had no chance of winning? Silver didn't betray the marooners or the pirates, just the other 2 leaders in his triumvirate. Madi's mom, Julius and the other marooners had no problem with the treaty, clearly the pirates were good with it. I agree his motivation is in major part selfish, but I also think he genuinely weighed all of these options and chose. Given that in actual history, Woods Rogers' book was so successful he got another crack at it, conquered the island and ruled in peace for years, pretending this war was worth another life is kind of silly. If it hadn't been Rogers, it would have been another imperial power. Like Max said, civilization has been winning this war for thousands of years. An island of pirates wasn't going to change that. Everything Flint said about civilization is true, but that doesn't stop its inevitability. At the end of the day, I see it as Silver ending an unwinnable war to save the woman he loves. That's not the act of a villain, but it can be twisted that way.

[@gemelwalters2942]

@@hardybryan So the maroons weren't fighting in the war? Silver went to Julius who he knew opposed Madi's views and had more men on the island. Madi's mom was not a part of the conversation, Madi was in charge now and he undercut her and gave Julius a stronger position. As for "no chance of winning", I would recommend expanding what you know because it's a bit of a naive position to take. I'm from the West Indies and these freed slaves represent similar figures in the West Indies who resisted the colonial masters. Their sacrifice spurred the next generation that made sure the war was costly for England and Spain which eventually lead to the abolishment of slavery. If not for their efforts my ancestors and me by extension would not be born a free man. It's rather silly to think ppl only fight wars if they personally can win. You fight for the future. Silvers act ensured that the next generation would be born into slavery so yes that makes him a villain. Julius only cared about the ppl immediately under his command, no one else and that puts him right there with Silver but it's a larger betrayal on Silvers part because he turned on his friend and the woman he claimed to love. You can't claim to love someone and think it's ok to maintain a status quo where the world sees her as little more than an animal.

[@jays4402]

@@gemelwalters2942 Slightly off topic but after reading that, I'm so surprised you don't hate Woodes Rodgers in this show mate. A person that threatens others with slavery is a person that is ok with slavery.

[@gemelwalters2942]

@@jays4402 I have no love for Roger's but Roger's didn't care about maintaining or abolishing slavery. He was just a bureaucrat that was in over his head and in the end he was just out for vengeance. Remember his second in command warned him of the potential mutiny that he was about to face. He was using the whole fighting for England thing as an excuse to get vengeance for Eleanor. At his core, he's a man in debt way over his head because he made promises to his creditors that he can't possibly deliver. He cared not for the big picture. Flint, who I love as a character, didn't care about the slaves either or changing the world for that matter. It was a personal story, he had a person he loved taken by England and he wanted them to pay for it. It so happened that he had something in common with the slaves but this didn't start out as some moral obligation to do the right thing. The pirates are not good ppl in this story, they're all villains in Nassau.

[@jays4402]

@@gemelwalters2942 Yes we can agree no character in this show is perfectly virtuous. The difference for me between Rogers and our main cast of pirates is that Rogers clearly has zero misgivings regarding the concept of slavery. Obviously he doesn't openly say that but analysing the totality of his character, that's the conclusion I firmly arrive at. Yes the pirates aren't fighting for the abolishment of slavery from day 1, that's not this story, however I believe most if not all of our main characters despise slavery. Many of them came from some form of it or experienced it e.g. Anne was a teen wife, Billy was captured and enslaved as a kid, Vane, Max etc. None of them distinguishes human beings into different classes of people, Rogers does, that's the key difference for me. Also I do believe Flint wanted to change the world by the end. Most if not all selfless endeavours emanate from selfish beginnings.

[@brady3319]

I’ve changed my mind a lot on it, but I think Flint’s end was the grimmer one. Regardless, I loved the ambiguity of it (especially how the happier ending looked both dreamlike and like the Flint/Silver flashback scenes earlier in the season)

[@ericsantucci6934]

20:00 - I would say this show surpassed GoT, tbh lol. This show managed to remain good throughout and stick the landing whereas GoT didn't.

[@INFEDnoX]

@@Wallopy_Joe This is the best way to describe it. Even though I do think Black Sails just edges it, a lot of people forget just how great the first four seasons of GoT actually were. It was must-watch television.

[@heidirich4266]

Best reaction to date!! Nikki you are the cutest. Watching this again with you two has been so much fun. Love it

[@deuces_shoeless]

It's not nearly as good, but Toby Stephens absolutely kills it in Lost in Space. Plus, Will Robinson's sister Penny is literally the embodiment of Nikki lmao

[@leuchtkaferchen1639]

I was like Nikki AND Steven at the revelation where Flint went. On the one hand smiling like a mad man and on the other hand crying like a baby. 😅 I love this show so much and it really is like poetry. I didn't know that there even is a discussion about if Silver lied to Madi and Flint is actually dead. I believe with all of my heart that the ending that we've seen is the real ending. Silver knows how to play his cards and he knows when he needs an ace up his sleeve (do you even say this in english? 😅) and he would lie to anybody else about this but not to Madi. He lies when he needs to lie and he tells the truth when he needs to but with Madi he doesn't have to lie. Even if she would be angry at first if he really killed Flint, she is a woman of reason. The reasoning why Silver removed Flint from the playing field is the same either way so why should he lie to her about the way he did it? She would have come around someday and forgive him because the way was not the reason why she was angry. It does make sense though that he lied to everybody else. They wouldn't have accept it if Flint was simply gone to live a normal life. For them he had to be dead to end all this. And they talked so much about their friendship in the last episodes. I do believe that Silver would kill Flint if he really saw no other way but he had already found that other way.

[@bushidoblvck_]

Please listen to the Fathoms Deep podcast for more Black Sails content. They have great analyses on every single episode of the show, they even have interviews with cast and crew members. I also recommend the Black Sails tribute Flesh and Bone.

[@vvreno]

I don't know about anyone else, but I haven't rewatched GoT since the series finale, but I've rewatched Black Sails several times, and I love it more every time.

[@windingroad9196]

So... for anyone who hasn't done the history behind the real life characters from this show, first... all of them are real people except for Flint and Silver. This whole series is a prequal to Treasure Island, in which Flint and Silver guide the legends that help push the story! "Jack" or John Rackham, aka. Calico Jack is indeed the inventor of the famous Jolly Roger we all know to this day! Anne Bonny AND "Mark" aka. Mary Read, portrayed at the very end, were both attached to Jack as spouses. When they were eventually captured in 1720 Anne and Mary both had their executions stayed due to pregnancy. Mary died either just before or directly after giving birth in a prison cell and all account's of Anne are lost at that point, though it was rumored that she died around age 80! The entire story has the merit of skewed truth. All of the characters knew each other... Woods Rogers was their enemy, and there was definitely a war between the Republic of Pirates in Nassau vs. England. The real-life version had Vane, Jack and another captain by the name of Edward England accept the pardons offered initially to the whole of Nassau, only to return to piracy shortly thereafter. All of these real-life characters have a pretty descriptive bio to reflect against this show! You just have to remember... history is written by the victor, and just like that little girl who offended Jack over her notions of Charles Vane, the stories are a bit embellished! All of that said... Nikki and Steven, in the beginning I didn't think I'd like watching you guys react, I honestly couldn't even say why. But I knew EXACTLY how Nikki would react when Flint is finally reunited with Thomas! Some of the things you were saying along the way, made me guess, correctly... those happy tears would pay us all a visit!! Steven picking up on the detail of the "old" English in every show!! How you were both captivated in the different avenues that the director would take to unfold the story!!! Great reactions! I just found your channel about 2 weeks ago, and this is the first series I witnessed you watching... but you guys have my support now too!! Glad you have a lot going here!!

[@caaaatchup]

Even the actor playing Captain Flint said that he believes Silver killed him and that he made the entire story up, no matter how great it is. Don't forget that that is what Flint tells him in the previous episode. That he has to make up a story believable enough so that Madi forgives him. And that is what he essentialy does...

[@LeoAndrares]

It's actually an ambiguous ending, you CAN choose to not believe and you CAN choose to believe it, this stated by the creators themselves, it's likely that it was actually true as much as that it was not, and it is as Jack says, the stories we WANT to believe are the ones that matter, and i think i'm safe say what ending we would RATHER have right? It's better for our mental health lol, the other one it's too tragic for me to handle 😂, i want Flint happyyyy and i can't see Nikki and Steve as reactors that wants to believe in the "this was for nothing" ending

[@codybarnes1531]

Yes they did that on purpose and that was a great choice, but if Flint had lived they would have that treasure. He would have told them and it wouldn't still be in the ground. Great ending either way.

[@Leo_ofRedKeep]

@@LeoAndrares To believe Silver's story, you need to believe that all present, including Jack, accepted to leave the treasure untouched and its location unknown even though Flint was still alive to tell them where to find it. The only reasonable alternative is that they had to accept it because Flint was dead.

[@charleyMD17]

@@codybarnes1531 I don't think Flint would've ever told Silver where the treasure was after he knew Silver was undermining them at the end. He was not giving that info up to Silver, IMO. He was hell bent on leaving that cache in the ground whether he lived or died.

[@findme7585]

That's actually untrue lol, Toby Stephens said a couple years back that he believes Flint is "alive and kicking" ❤

[@reno9821]

Still catching up on your reactions, somewhere at season 4 episode 4 right now, because I couldn't help but binge ahead. But after just finishing the series finale, I just had to come here and confirm your efforts to spread the word on this beautiful show were successful and I have to thank you for being a big reason for why I gave it a chance. Best show you've never seen is a perfect way i've seen to describe it. Some moments left me confused or angry at first, but by the end everything made perfect sense.

[@mikaele7290]

This show is one of my favorites of all time. A very underrated hidden gem. It's Pirates of the Caribbean meets Vikings. I recommend this show to everyone. Great characters and arcs that you develop an emotional bond with, great story, and great writing (yes Steven, like poetry). I agree with Steven, this show is flawless. Flint is the main protagonist but Silver was the dark horse and had an awesome character arc, he went from zero to hero, cook to king. Keep up the content. Aloha

[@LeahB31]

SomeJoeShmoe channel just started reacting to this show today. He is awesome.

[@zoe_blackmore]

The flag at the end was the real Jack Rackham's flag the two crossed swords represented jack's famous female pirate companions Anne Bonny & Mary Read (Mark Read). They were the historical threesome. Unfortunately the real Woods Rodgers returns to Nassau and issues a warrant for Rackham's execution. Rackham is finally executed in Jamaica, Bonny & Read escape execution by saying they are pregnant, Read llater dies during the pregnancy and Bonny was not executed, she stayed in prison, was reprieved and is buried in a church yard in Jamaica..

[@MrBonners]

They made full scale ships and massive sets for this.

[@rawkmode6315]

And then, in the beginning of "Treasure Island," we find that, decades later, Silver is still hunting Billy, just like he said he would.

[@GhostWatcher2024]

Still wishing the writers of this show would bring back the pertinent actors and make their own "Treasure Island" movie, tv movie, miniseries, something. It would definitely be an interesting version with this version of Billy Bones and John Silver.

[@michaellarnach4161]

Ive been waiting for this reaction most since i saw you guys starting this show - such a beautiful ending, james and thomas reunion gave me goosebumps when i first saw it and i knew anyone who liked this show would feel the same way. Its been a great ride guys, keep it up with more heartfelt reactions reactions to excellent shows and youll have our attention :) PS: might i recommend ROME by HBO - id describe it as like a "diet" game of thrones, excellent characters, excellent stories/intrigue and knowing history and outcome wont even affect the viewin.

[@FarrisG]

Now you guys have to watch the official Treasure Island story in film version to conclude this epic tale! So watch Muppets Treasure Island! 🤣🙏

[@barbararommy]

I cried my eyes out like Nikki when Flint finally met with Tom and I cried again watching your video guys. Thanks for watch the show!!! Please try Money Heist!!

[@ericanymann4777]

I have watched this finale several times and only just now realized the significance of Silver mentioning that the governor of Carolina made use of the prisoner plantation! That's Peter Ashe! Remember he told his daughter he was sending her to Savannah?? That's the same place - Abigail Ashe is there! Did I get that right?

[@findme7585]

Oh my gosh, Nikki's shirt has me crying!!!! I love it, where on earth did you get it? 🥺❤

[@NikkiStevenReact]

It was sent to me, I think someone got it from the "red bubble" website

[@balthasarEF]

React to a Treasure Island movie to see how everyone turns out next!

[@callieblackwell297]

I feel like we watch the same kind of shows. I've watch all of them. I would like for you guys react to Spartacus and the newer syfy Battlestar Galactica. Keep em coming

[@Whimsly]

Hey, quick fact, Jack's flag at the end would come to be known as the Jolly Roger: aka the most recognizable pirate standard in the western world. It's still used as the quintessential pirate flag today by every piece of pirate-related media under the sun. Also, it was the real-life Jack Rackham's flag, too. Looks like Jack got his wish to leave a mark on history after all.

[@charleyMD17]

The irony of Jack is that he is looking at his legacy at the end of the show, the thing that will out-live then all, and he just gives a lackluster "It's fine". 🤣

[@HNCS2006]

@@charleyMD17 that's the story of Jack. It's his brand of cosmic ironic comedy.

[@tastygravy6880]

The ending is a mystery really, I believe that Flint is dead, as sad as that might be, he still remained true to his morales about fighting to the end and trying to give the pirates a better life, each to their own but thats my take on it.

[@GhostWatcher2024]

This is all inspired by "Treasure Island"... and it was heavily implied Flint died in relative luxury in some plantation in the Carolinas...not on some island. So for Flint to give up the fight because he regained what he lost that created the motivation in the first place actually makes sense.

[@chris6770]

Don't forget the writers wanted to weave the end of this story into Treasure Island, so we kinda know what happened to Silver. I remember at the time how we wanted a fifth season or remake of Treasure Island as we didn't want it to end, but it was, like you said, poetry. Glad you both loved it too.

[@gemelwalters2942]

I don't think Treasure island would happen in just 1 season. As a story it's short but this series introduced too many story threads and relationships to be resolved in 1 season. If they did do a 5th season I think it would have been between S3 and S4 and we would see the legend build through Billy but also Eleanor and Woods instead of them just showing up married.

[@blanketsquares7607]

"A story is true, a story is untrue... " love that line so much

[@aaronw.markel9319]

In the book TREASURE ISLAND it was Ben Gunn that was marooned, not Billy Bones.

[@SnappingTurtle801]

Madi still loves Silver and probably wants to reconnect with him which is why she came to him. In the book Silver married a woman of color so I think we can assume it was Madi.

[@Patrick-xv6qv]

No y'all should watch Treasure Island movie. You will see how the TV series blended in so well with the book Treasure Island that inspired the TV show There have been many movie versions of the book Treasure Island but the best is considered the 1990 TV movie adaption since the 1935 version. The 1990 version stars Charleton Heston as Long John Silver and a young Christian Bale as Jim Hawkins.

[@Rob749s]

"I did not kill Captain Flint. I unmade him" - poetry.

[@moviegeek8586]

Mark Reed is really Mary Reed a female pirate who pretended to be a man to join the British military. Mary, Anne Bonny & Jack Rackham were convicted of piracy a year after she joined Jack’s crew.

[@Zeliek]

"I unmade him"

[@wompa70]

The only downside to this being a prequel to Treasure Island is knowing some of the characters that HAD to survive. Ben Gunn, Israel Hands, Billy Bones, and, most importantly, Silver himself. I have to believe Robert Louis Stevenson would have loved this series.

[@NikkiStevenReact]

Oh good point. Guess it’s great we had no knowledge of the treasure island story.

[@ashleyplayssims]

Hey guys I know this has nothing to do with Black Sails (sorry sorry sorry) but would you guys consider reacting to The Last Kingdom. It's a Netflix series and has four seasons out at the moment but the fifth and final season should be out next year. Have a great week and great holiday !!

[@Sovereignxx]

Love it! "You okay?" "That was really good" you both are fantastic

[@derdachs7132]

Its crazy how few people here Knie about the treasure Island its a movie about the Events after the Show

[@newnawlins]

Before the book.

[@ecenee]

I know this is not the right place but I started watching "the last kingdom" and in the first episode as soon as I heard the name of" King Ella "I concluded that it is in the time of "Ragnar" and I know how much you love" Vikings" so I suggest you watch" the last kingdom" to know the story from the other side I also heard that it is one of the best historical shows

[@ecenee]

After completing the first episode, it became clear that it is not the story of the opposite side, but rather something, and the time period is not clear, but it is close to what is in the Vikings

[@ecenee]

🤣🤣🤣 And now I've lost interest in it I don't know why but I think the main character wasn't interesting

[@ulysses1692]

I firmly believe that Silver killed Flint, as much as I would prefer the ending of Flint reuniting with Thomas. Silver is a story-teller as well as a liar and always have been after all. Why would he have brought Flint all the way out there in the forest if he was just going to tell him about Thomas? We also never get any confirmation that what Silver told us about Thomas was the truth. Jack puts it very well in the end; "A story is true, a story is untrue, it doesn't matter. All that matters is what we *want* to believe. Those are the stories that shape history." Ultimately that's the whole theme of the show, history is written by the victor and the "story" is subjective to that fact, and so why wouldn't Flint's fate apply to that as well. Silver had to leave the chest, as it would have fueled the rebellion. He also had to keep Flint's death a secret, to not make him a martyr. Constructing a story where Flint chooses to walk away is a much better solution for both Silver and Rackham.

[@nivekian]

Well, he lived long enough to die at the start of Treasure Island... Which BTW... Starz... sequel/ miniseries for Treasure Island with the Black Sails cast.

[@xanthelinhs2143]

@@nivekian this is an adaption though, Just because he lived to an extant in treasure island does not mean he lived here at the end of the day.

[@Александр-ы9в2к]

@@nivekian Showrunners said Treasure Island is another STORY in that world, so it may or may not be true.

[@ulysses1692]

@@nivekian Captain Flint is already dead at the start of Treasure Island if I remember right. We are told he drinks himself to death in a bar someplace a while before the beginning of the actual story. If you consider how stories might be warped and distorted to fit the narrative, I don't see how it's incompatible to the story of him being killed by Silver instead.

[@Kharnete]

@@ulysses1692 Several years before the book starts, somewhere "in Savannah". So yeah, the writters were really careful to give sense to both theories. The only thing that goes against Flint dying on the island (the fate I have as true) is the Treasure Island map, as in theory Billy Bones gets it from Flint years after this. But then again, leaving Billy stranded there gives him the chance of just finding it like certain other character does in a later time, deciding to draw a map instead of risking taking it whenever he got rescued ("Hello stranded lad, want a ride? sure, no problem. Oh, what's in that chest? A fucking treasure? What stranded guy? We have only found a chest" :P) to come back in the future if the opportunity arises. But it did not.

[@dannyrodriguez8841]

Perfection!! ❤❤

[@xoPanchitaxo]

Toby Stephens plays Captain Flint so damn well! Will remain one of my favorite characters of all time! Silver, Vane, and Jack ain't far off! Toby's performance was outstanding the whole way, hell, all of them were AMAZING in their roles! And when you re-watch months later, everything hits just the same, even clearer. BLACK SAILS IS UNDERRATED BECAUSE SO MANY DO NOT KNOW OF THIS BEAUTIFUL SHOW. But I hold it dear, it is a 9/10 for me for sure!! Thank you guys for giving it a chance and watching, your reactions are always great :)

[@michelle_erpn]

yep that's exactly how I cry everytime I rewatch the finale :'))

[@thomasnilsson4003]

You guys should do The Last Kingdom if you like historical dramas.

[@lbds9555]

A few fun tidbits; - "Mark Reed" was actually Mary Reed. Her, Bonnie, and Jack went on to be a famous pirate trio, until... well, a rather unfortunate ending. - The flag that Jack had designed at the end is the Jolly Roger, the single most universal symbol associated with pirates. Which kind of makes his dissatisfaction so much funnier, as that is the true mark of his legacy that he left behind. - I love that the ending is deliberately ambiguous... yet both possible endings are so fitting. Did Silver kill Flint? Was Flint's reunion with Thomas just another one of Silver's fabrications? Or did Flint truly, finally, get to find peace? An absolutely fantastic show with an absolutely fantastic conclusion. Now, if you're looking for something else to react to, I HIGHLY recommend Spartacus. It was also made by Starz, and both that and Black Sails are tied as number one for my all-time favourite show. I just know how much you both will love it... and strangely, hardly ANY channels have reacted to it yet, even though it received widespread critical acclaim when it was on!

[@johnnyskinwalker4095]

maybe he named it the Jolly Rogers cause he wanted to mock Rogers...which lead to his unfortunate end

[@blanketsquares7607]

I like to think flint got his happy ending as treasure Island states that he died in Georgia.

[@chernobyl68]

BEST. SHOW. EVER. Jack Rackham was a real historical pirate and is the one credited with creating the classic "jolly roger" flag.

[@Dirkeecz]

Jack's new flag is "jolly roger" - universally known symbol for pirates.

[@ChiliFusion13]

You guys HAVE to watch Peaky Blinders now!!!

[@MrCzerillo]

And the villains win. Now read Treasure Island for the rest of the story.

[@misterkite]

Real life Jack really did design the famous Jolly Roger flag.

[@MrBonners]

Half true story, half were real people. Jack was hung. Anne disappeared.

[@NolaNerd]

My top shows ever: 1. Sopranos 2. Breaking Bad 3. Black Sails 4. Vikings 5. Better Call Saul Black Sails in visual literature.

[@jays4402]

Toby Stephens talking about making this show: "We were doing literature"

[@7heSlime]

This is how you do a bittersweet ending, not the shit we got on Game of Thrones.

[@TheRaventwilight]

Light on the bitter, much more sweet 👍😏

[@GDRaptorFan13]

Wonderful journey to watch it again along with you two!! You both did an amazing job, the reactions were extremely enjoyable. I will miss this. Always a favorite notification! I’m so happy you exposed this show to many, and will join the rest of us singing the praises of Black Sails for life. Still my favorite show of all time hands down. Thanks so much for your content !!! LOOKING FORWARD TO THE LAST KINGDOM!! ❤️

[@zacharybryant9881]

So, I’m in the “what we see on screen is more or less what happened” camp. I think it’s important to acknowledge that either reading is “correct” and it’s going to come down on a few battling world views (which is what makes the ending so great). I think the main debate is the idea between story and real life. Black Sails uses both fictional characters and real life figures, sort of mending the two. If someone sees the show as a sort of alt-history in a sense, I think they’ll go towards the more real-to-life answer of Silver simply shooting Flint, which is satisfying in its own right and can still lead into the source material in a way. As a story, the ending being more or less true, makes the most sense. We see callbacks from the show, which is set up and pay off. We even see a flashback that Silver isn’t present for at the beginning which, as a story device, becomes a bit cheap if Flint is going to die on the island. It’s only there to trick the audience and not add to the story. That flashback also had the infamous clock, which is nice to see. As for the source material, either can technically work to lead into Treasure Island, for the Silver kills Flint ending we do have to accept that Billy is a bit crazy in the novel and believes he spoke to Flint for the location of the treasure, and that he was able to hear the rumors that he died in Savannah. Not impossible but doesn’t quite fit as well as I would like. The ending we see very easily lined up with the novel. Some may say too well, and it’s not impossible BIlLy found the treasure on his own, he’d have plenty of time, but it doesn’t quite work for me. But at the end of the day, I’m extremely glad there’s no answer. While I have my belief about it, in no way is it wrong to think the opposite. The writers did a great job making there enough evidence for both and allowing someone’s world view to decide it.

[@flintmcgraw6957]

you guys, stop arguing about silver killing flint, go and read the book!! who you think gave Billy the location of the chest??? Flint dies years after in Savannah , he drinks himself to death

[@ManicMeeks]

I ugly cried hard too! I watched this back in my early reaction days so I didn't have editing down. Most of mine were blocked, but man.....it was sooo good!

[@HNCS2006]

I love how Black Sails is so good, reactors continue to hype about it on other reaction channels.

[@rachelespiritu4215]

Ahh good to see you here! I watched along with you too!

[@joshuawesten8300]

You keep comparing this to game of thrones but the thing is well game of thrones started off good they couldn't hold a good story as soon as they got ahead of the books the series started to flop they rushed it and in the end they ruined it turning an amazing series into an okay series I would not put game of thrones in the top tier of all time TV series but I would definitely put black sails in the top tier

[@mcwelcho]

Thanks i really enjoy watching all the show with u

[@Pulsar77]

Thank you so much for these wonderful reactions. It's such a joy to see your enthusiasm and your thoughtful analysis; you are the best reaction channel on youtube. Black Sails is my second-favourite show of all time; the only show that tops it is The Leftovers, a show I truly hope you'll get to one day. What makes Black Sails so brilliant is that ultimately it is a story about storytelling itself. The clichéd stories that we know about pirates are inventions, written by people in the 'civilized' world, initially to strike fear, and later for entertainment. The notion of reality vs perception is addressed throughout the show. This is why the ambiguous ending (is John Silver lying?) is a stroke of genius: we can choose to believe the ending that we want. It's amazing how much the writing improved from S1 to S2, and then consistently maintained such a high level. It found a perfect balance of action and drama, with some of the best dialogue ever put to screen.

[@jays4402]

Rainy Day Reactions who also did Black Sails are about to start Leftovers

[@Pulsar77]

@@jays4402 Nice! I really like them.

[@LeahB31]

@@jays4402 SomeJoeShmoe channel just started reacting to Black Sails. He is awesome.

[@ericsantucci6934]

Yeah, at first I thought Silver's story was true, but now I definitely think that Silver killed Flint. I think he really did send a guy to the plantation to investigate if Thomas was there, but they were told that he wasn't there.

[@johnnyskinwalker4095]

you sure about that, that he was told nobody was there?