Why you should watch BLACK SAILS (A Hidden Masterpiece)

A quick video essay on Black Sails, a show which has largely fallen under the radar; however, it belongs in conversation with the greatest of all time. We need more TV shows and series like this.
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/ visualbarrage
#blacksails #treasureisland #videoessay

[@visualbarrage]

Still hoping for that Treasure Island sequel series 🤞👀

[@Teddy-zr8yv]

timothe chalamet as jim hawkins? think about it

[@Teddy-zr8yv]

timothe chalamet as jim hawkins? think about it

[@mrbeans2425]

Wishing right along side you! But you are aware this was written as a sort of Prequel to Treasure Island.

[@visualbarrage]

@@mrbeans2425 Of course! But just imagine a live action adaption with this cast 🤯

[@ppvk2610]

Main question for me... How would Flint fit into this?

[@timovangalen1589]

Toby Stephens is criminally underrated as Captain Flint.

[@visualbarrage]

CRIMINALLY. He deserved all the awards

[@ppvk2610]

Not by those who have watched all seasons

[@teo2975]

Disagree. His overacting is over the top.

[@TigerLily61811]

@@teo2975 Disagree! He's amazing.

[@inory5460]

@@teo2975 you think he overacted? Whe I was watching the show recently I never thought that he was overacting.

[@funkydozer]

One of the most satisfying and fully wrapped up endings in TV series history, I’m not ashamed to say as a grown man I did shed a tear for captain Flint.

[@visualbarrage]

Nothing to be ashamed of, If there's ever a good time to cry - Black Sails is that time :)

[@Monatio79]

Indeed. Now I know this has been debated countless times, but do you think Silver actually retired Flint to go live at that "reformatory", or did he, in fact, have him killed with the whole story being a fabrication?🤔

[@xScooterAZx]

Why? It never shows him dead though.You just hear the shot. Leaving it open.

[@nonameman7114]

@@Monatio79I lean towards flint dying, mainly due to Rackham’s monologue afterwards about stories and Silver’s natural talent in twisting them.

[@matpaterson8830]

​@Monatio79 As much as I want Flint to get his happy ending I think Silver killing him in the woods fits the tone of the series a bit better and fits more neatly into Treasure Island

[@scottymacdewder5229]

"To be underestimated, is an incredible gift." Jack Rackham

[@almightylamington5978]

I've only recently discovered Black Sails, and I am so glad I did. My favourite thing about Black Sails is its rewatch value. So many shows and movies you watch once, and you've experienced the story. But I'd say if you've only watched Black Sails once, you're experience is incomplete. There are so many parts that reveal themselves on the second watch (Eg. all the hints to Mr Scott's story. All the double conversations, especially between Miranda and flint.) It's a show that rewards you for rewatching it. The construction of the narrative and how deep the themes are woven into it is just incredible. Every time I watch the series, there is something new to notice.

[@visualbarrage]

Well said!!👏 You're making me want to rewatch it...again xD

[@ramibeiruty1797]

you couldn't have said it any better. I'm actaully rewatching the show for the 4th time now.

[@scottymacdewder5229]

Recently finished my 2nd rewatch, and i now consider it the 2nd greatest show of all time.

[@That-Feller]

Where do you watch it

[@lifeisberserk9566]

Same with alot of shows I've rewatched I always find more and more things I didn't pick up on the first time

[@naamari]

Best show ever made. Some of the greatest dialogue and character work I've seen.

[@visualbarrage]

The writing is unmatched 🔥

[@magiwebdesign3849]

Black Sails is definitely on par with Rome, Deadwood, and The Expanse as my favourite shows of all time.

[@pizzaman6784]

Except for Eleanor saying Consortium every other sentence.

[@Real_MisterSir]

The best thing about the character portrayals in Black Sails, is that no person is ever written to act as a plot convenience for someone else. They each have believable reasons, morals, and ambition for their own view of the future. They may act in alliance, in defiance, or in neutral greys. But they never act for the convenience of anyone but themselves. Even those they care for, are ultimately questioned in their motives if enough of a chasm is driven between them. Never does a person do something just because the writers need them to do it. And this is incredibly hard to achieve with such a wide and complex character cast. They are some of the most well rounded and well written character ensemble of any modern tv show. And while some are smarter than others, they're all still intelligent and act according to the information and rationale available to them at any given moment. Never does anyone do anything that one couldn't reasonably expect them to do given the knowledge and context they hold at that point in time. Simply masterful writing.

[@j9lorna]

That man o war opening its gun ports at the end of the first season...and then just letting rip. I felt it in my chest.

[@visualbarrage]

Haha yes! And when Flint says "Fire." Literal chills man

[@TheMemeMachineMatt]

That was when you knew shit got real.

[@shandafetter553]

Absolutely loved when they left SC and Flint said to fire on "whatever's left".

[@kowalski3769]

Agreed. On my 2nd watch. I forgot how good it was. Great cast, sets, and script. Nothing corny or "Disney" about it. Very complex and deep characters. Awesome CGI too! There's a lot to like about this series. Wish it got more attention.

[@visualbarrage]

This 100% And yeah, we need more shows as good as this one 🙏

[@dash4800]

It's annoys me to no end that the final season of game of thrones was still getting Emmys and this show never got shit.

[@stephanl2409]

Shows how blind and lazy the establishment has become. We need to spread the word about this show

[@reabsorb6775]

@@stephanl2409they've just out it on netflix and i'm almost finished with season 3 first time viewing . fucking amazing show , i get its praise . it deserved more 100%

[@xScooterAZx]

ALL of the characters are so fully fleshed out that it's hard when one of them is killed. I kind of got lost in their world and didnt want to come out. I felt rather flattened at the end. So I've watched the entire series twice through. I hope one day it is picked up for more seasons.

[@labamboos]

Had put this off for so long, and now I’m regretting the hours I wasted watching tepid tv, when I could have been immersing myself in this elite level media. What a ride it has been. Definitely one of the best shows of all time. Writing, acting, production, score…just all round perfection.

[@visualbarrage]

Haha Black Sails truly is the best! Problem with binging is that you soon run out of Black Sails...

[@mknees1467]

I tirelessly recommend this masterpiece and I don't think I'm stopping any time soon.

[@visualbarrage]

Great Idea! You're not alone

[@berndeklerk]

James Flint has to be the best character ever written

[@visualbarrage]

Couldn't agree more 🙏 Toby Stephens kills it in that role!

[@Sohbek]

Him and Charles Vane. They were so fking good.

[@FaithOriginalisme]

I like Silver more. However, they were all great. Vane was sooo different from real history, and it's for the better

[@scottymacdewder5229]

Everyone in this show is their own main character... like in "the wire" with the city of Baltimore... the main character of black sails is Nassau itself... that said, like the irca gold, Jack Rackham steals the show out from under Flint, and Vain and everyone else.

[@FaithOriginalisme]

@@jake-bg3jl absolutely hilarious that you think that just because it was illegal and a hanging offense, a pirate wouldn't do it. Historians are in agreement that pirates engaged in homosexual acts. Buggery sure was a capital offense, but it required a witness who was willing to rat them out. Just because "gay" wasn't a label used until the 20th century, doesn't mean it didn't happen. Sorry you don't want gay pirates, but history doesn't care what you want. I want pirates to have not participated in the slave trade, but they did.

[@mrbeans2425]

Absolutely Agree! This show was SO GOOD! and i miss it so much! Definitely going to have to rewatch it soon. I will never understand how this show wasnt 10X more popular! and i fell in LOVE with EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER! This show is a masterpiece!

[@visualbarrage]

Absolute masterpiece!

[@Evanz111]

I never actually knew this was a persona to Treasure Island - so when the parts finally fell into place, I was blown away. To make such a gripping drama with some of the best and most expensive naval scenes in film make this one of a kind.

[@visualbarrage]

Would have been a good surprise! It's definitely one of a kind ❤️

[@dmbkersh]

Their motivations feeling “earned” is possibly the most beautifully put description of why I love this show. We are given the chance to root for their differing approaches etc.

[@Inktron]

Yes! Which is honestly why I really wanted a Silver backstory. I really wanted to know HIS motivations bc his actions seemed the strangest

[@redfoxx0930]

One of the most underrated shows ever, definitely top 5 all time historical drama's. While I think certain seasons of Game of Thrones where better than this, ultimately from start to finish I think this was a more complete satisfying series/story. No horrible variances in quality between the seasons, all character motivations make sense, it was truly a series where almost all characters operated in the gray whether they were protagonists or antagonists

[@visualbarrage]

Yep! Well said! GOT def had its share of brilliance

[@Blisterdude123]

I remember starting season 1 because I was bored and looking for something to fill time and almost without thinking about it I was on season 4 and utterly rapt, enamoured, swept away with it. It's one of those wonderful gems of a show, that sleepwalks you into its own understated brilliance. Rewatches are so rewarding with the benefit of hindsight, all the little details and touches and subtleties you don't put together about various characters, and backgrounds, the first time. Black Sails is an absolute treasure.

[@visualbarrage]

Very well put! It creeps up on you until you suddenly don't want it to ever end. This show has so much love put into it ♥

[@HNCS2006]

Yes, we need more videos on KZbin promoting Black Sails. Really really do. 💪

[@visualbarrage]

Exactly why I wanted to make this! It deserves so much more love ❤

[@thomas_dries]

This was a wonderful analysis of the show with minimal spoilers. Thank you for this! I have been going crazy since I first watched this, I had no idea it existed before last year and It boggles my mind that this show isn’t more popular.

[@visualbarrage]

Thankyou so much man! Tried to keep the spoilers to a minimum. The show is criminally underrated aye, basically started this channel because I was annoyed know one else was talking about it 😂

[@BOOOOOOOONE]

Picked it up at the end of season 2 after the buzz of its massive uptick in quality began to appear online. Season one is fun, certainly, but the second is definitely where it begins to shine in terms of story-telling, and it just never lets up. Still one of my favourite shows of all time.

[@visualbarrage]

Yess! True words my friend. The finale of season 1 is where I realized I'm Gunna have to go all-in and binge this show xD Then season 2 just elevated it to new heights! It's so underrated man, wish more people new about it!

[@alizzybookling]

I search up new content on Black Sails every month so see who is just discovering it or making new videos on the show. One of my favorite shows ever conceived, and I love when people discover it and are blown away by it. Has one of my favorite characters EVER in Flint, some of my favorite dynamics EVER in Flint - Silver and Miranda - Flint. He's also the most complicated LGBTQ character I've ever seen where his sexuality does not define his characterization. One of the best written characters I've ever seen, period. A bold and brilliant character and show with poetic justice and payoff that increases as the seasons pass. Great video. Long live Captain Flint.

[@visualbarrage]

Thanks for this! Always love finding more Black Sails fans. And yes, your right! His sexuality is just a small sliver of what makes him Flint. This is how you write a LGBTQ character!

[@pacus123]

After reading this I am glad I stopped watching the show after a few episodes. Robert Louis Stevenson would be rolling in his grave if he was to know what happened of his beloved characters :(

[@alizzybookling]

@@pacus123 The show is decently faithful. If your issue is the LGBTQ angle (which isn't mentioned a whole lot), then I'm glad you stopped watching it too. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@JTmaxx]

I once went on a 1 hour 20 minute rant on a call about how Black Sails was the greatest television series ever made. It's a show that I'll never forget and is my favorite piece of media second to The Grey starring Liam Neeson.

[@visualbarrage]

Haha now that's passion! The show's just too good

[@duglife2230]

The main theme is also one of the most badass in television history!

[@visualbarrage]

You got that right!! Listen on repeat!

[@dontrah1838]

Not really

[@CymruJedi]

I wouldn’t have known about the show if it wasn’t for Blind Waves reaction series and now Black Sails is one of my favourite shows ever!

[@visualbarrage]

Love Blind Wave! Watched along with them every week, and was a constant highlight seeing there gradual realisation of just how good the show was! 😂

[@daredhervil]

I discovered BLACK SAILS late 2023, so I got to watch all 4 seasons in less than two weeks... WAOW ! What a ride !

[@DarkSideOfTheBrightSide]

Was it everything you hoped for? I’m starting fresh, haven’t even watched episode one.. let me know your reaction, since you’re a comment section attendee- I feel you’ll shoot straight, no chaser, or fancy roundabout verbiage to intoxicate an audience. No disrespect to the uploader, because this review is amazing, and has me grinning ear to ear listening to the praises- but, I want to know is he overselling it, or on-par with your perspective.. so indulge me with your thought, I will definitely entertain your opinion, and hold it close to my own personal tastes- I do say.

[@shandafetter553]

Just finished Season 3. Still upset over Charles Vane ..

[@flintsrevenge4356]

Great to see Black Sails getting some recognition. Best show I’ve seen. Oy didn’t even mention Jack Rackham or Billy Bones - brilliant characters with great story arcs. Ray Stevenson’s Blackbeard is also incredible and his defiance against Woodes Rogers. That keelhauling scene….

[@visualbarrage]

Yep! There's so much to talk about - Jack, Teach and Woodes Rogers especially really elevate the show, I honestly could've made like an hour + video but just couldn't find the time haha

[@funkydozer]

The guy who played rackham was such a great actor, he was soooo smooth and effortlessly believable. My favourite character in the show.

[@Yxalitis]

I tell every new group of people I meet about black Sails. a masterpiece that seems to have sailed under the radar. Watched it through 3 times, planning a 4th

[@visualbarrage]

Thats great to hear- You can never go wrong with another Black Sails rewatch!

[@Checkyourselfatthedoor]

Black Sails IS a hidden masterpiece!!!! 🏴‍☠️

[@visualbarrage]

You damn right!

[@vincesir23]

Had this series on my list for a long time. Watched this video before the series and since I’m almost done with season 4 I gotta say thanks for your recommendation. One of the best shows I’ve ever watched. The whole cast is amazing and Toby Stephens is killing it🙏🏽

[@visualbarrage]

This means alot man! So glad you took a chance on it - it's always so great to hear people's reactions once they realise how great it is 😂 I also recommend watching BlindWave's reaction series to it :) Is good fun!

[@vincesir23]

@@visualbarrage thanks for the reply and the new recommendation. I’ll check that out 🙏🏽😌

[@XaeeD]

I agree, it's a hidden gem, and one of the best tv shows ever made. I think that most people might be put off by the "pirates" theme, but when given a chance, I also think that those people will quickly realize that this is not the stereotypical *argh matey* pirate story. Truly immersive, in-depth and praiseworthy on all levels, imo. I love how it ties into Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island". I listened to the audiobook recently, which is why I'm looking at Black Sails videos right now, and Black Sails paints such a vibrant and emotionally loaded backstory for Treasure Island, that once you've seen Black Sails and you revisit the classic novel, it's a whole new experience. You 'know' now what preceded the events in the novel, and it's amazing to me how Black Sails takes characters from the novel, that are only mentioned in passing, and makes those 'names' come to life. Captain Flint is mentioned a couple of times throughout the novel, and always as a kind of tyrant who was feared by all, but he's a distant memory, a shadow in the backdrop, an echo. With Black Sails, the mere mentioning of Flint in the book, adds a dimension, a history and deep familiarity that you'd never experience without the show. The novel even mentions, in passing, that John Silver is married to a black woman. Imagine that. They took that seemingly insignificant detail and crafted Madi's character from it. Not only that, but there's an entire plotline that firmly and realistically roots her character in the world. It's honestly a great testament to how creative writers can respect and honor source material, and improve upon it, and add to its richness. I've been telling people for years now that this is the show to watch, but unfortunately, it seems to remain obscure and doesn't quite get the recognition it deserves. Another similar case is Marco Polo, which I'd put right up there, although perhaps not quite as good as Black Sails. Toby Stephens shines as Flint, and it's probably the best role he's ever played. Toby Schmitz, Jessica Parker Kennedy, Louise Barnes, Luke Roberts, they're all extremely good in their roles. And unlike so many shows today, Black Sails actually manages to wrap it all up in a consistent and satisfactory fashion. I'd love to see more, but the story concluded. Perhaps a videogame that includes Black Sails and Treasure Island, or a Lego Pirates sub-theme (which will never happen), a quality animated series, or a new movie for Treasure Island, with Black Sails as part of its canonical lore.

[@MzCheecharella]

I "discovered" this show this week, and have already binged watched nearly through season 2 and it IS Amazing! The writing/story lines are SEAMLESS. I am a huge GOT and HOTD fan, (thus forever pissed about GOT season 8 and such), and Black Flags is my new... current... show addiction. Great in every way! And YES, shockingly under the radar. Let's hope it gains the momentum it deserves

[@visualbarrage]

Thanks for this! Glad you've discovered the show! It truly is shockingly under the radar- Its great the word of mouth is going around though!

[@lesbianspaceranger]

okay okay fine I'll watch it again. not like I've been looking for a reason or anything. it's so sensational in EVERY aspect and deserves so much more attention

[@visualbarrage]

This. Well said! and glad I've persuaded you to do so!! 😁🙌

[@markstochmal707]

The television series I hold all other television series to. An absolute masterpiece. Love that I’m not alone in this thinking. 🏴‍☠️🏴‍☠️

[@visualbarrage]

As mentioned at the end of the vid, it's great to see reaction channels and etc catching onto it and bringing more awareness! Its deserving of so much more!

[@KaregoAt]

I came across it completely by accident and had it recommended by an acquaintance. Turned out to be the single best piece of television I've ever seen. No other series comes close. I truly wish it gets the appreciation it deserves.

[@phoenixskyward9972]

I watched this show back when it was airing. I absolutely loved it that as soon as I finished, I started it again. It was a fantastic breath of fresh air with all the beautiful sceneries and historical events. I really love that era in history and this show, although has a lot of fiction, portrayed a wonderful image of life back then, real or not, still bloody awesome. I'm very glad you made this video, it truly deserves more recognition.

[@visualbarrage]

Couldn't agree more!

[@lukegrump]

Couldn't agree more mate. Treasure Island is a book that has been important to I since childhood, back when I got shouted at by a teacher in primary school because when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I replied 'a pirate'. I was not expecting much when I first heard about Black Sails as, in the past representations of the golden age of piracy have often been reduced to simplistic, cartoon-like, imagery. Black Sails delved into the complexity of the politics, and social mentality of the era, that drove so many to say 'fuck it', and 'turn pirate'. As you said, Black Sails is a highly intelligent, and engaging story, that tragically went under a lot of peoples radar.

[@visualbarrage]

Cheers for this comment Luke! Very well said!

[@Muz__27]

Probably my favorite show ever. I watched it when it first aired and to this day when I hear anyone talking about TV shows I'll always bring up Black Sails which of course they usually say they never heard of and I tell them they gotta watch it. Sadly most don't get around to it. I think it's partly due to their fatigue of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies even though I tell them it's nothing like it. I greatly enjoyed seeing Blind Wave react to it and to see how much they loved it too.

[@visualbarrage]

Yess! Blind wave's reactions really were one of the highlights of my week! Crazy how Luke Arnold (silver) got on during the finale discussion ep also! Even he was watching xD

[@iesika7387]

Flint is obviously amazing, and Silver and Billy both have truly amazing arcs, but what makes this series for me are the women. It was actuallty a short clip of Anne Bonney that got me to watch this originally - when the real life Anne was finally caught by the pirate hunters, her last free act was to shoot her own men for cowardace, for not fighting hard enough, reportedly saying "If you'd fought like men you wouldn't have died like dogs." Clara Paget's portrayal feels perfect. While most of the other amazing women in the show are not actual historical figures of the era, they all fill fully believable roles in this time and place and story. Eleanor stands in for the whole real-life Guthrie family but there were also real merchant queens of the new world where being able to buy a private army meant more than English law or custom, Max resembles the powerful creole madams of New Orleans, etc. They all feel real.

[@Inktron]

Yes! Anne is a badass and so is Max and Eleanor. I didn’t really believe she fell in love with the governor tho.. seemed out of character for an independent woman like her. Like that came out of nowhere I genuinely thought she was manipulating him

[@jamesdavey9690]

Great review, mate! Black Sails is probably the best series so far of the 21st century.

[@visualbarrage]

100% with you on this. Thanks for the kind words ❤️

[@Bekka_Noyb]

♥ Black Sails! Anne Bonny is one of my all time fave characters!

[@bettyebauche]

One of my most favourite series of all time. The intro is just epic and the set design as well as the costumes are amazing!

[@visualbarrage]

Couldn't agree more! There's so much amazing stuff in Black Sails it's hard to cover it all xD

[@Blackjacksarmory]

It’s my favorite show of all time! 🏴‍☠️

[@visualbarrage]

A man of good taste! 🤝

[@davidcampbell4174]

I agree with most of what you said. This show is criminally underrated. My issue with the show was the casting of Eleanor. She just never felt right in that part for me. Thanks for the video, great breakdown.

[@visualbarrage]

Fair enough! I still enjoyed her though, especially towards the end with Woodes Rogers, thought that pairing was a unique way to take her character. Appreciate the kind words man 🙏

[@SimonAshworthWood]

I liked all of the actors in their roles. Clearly such things are subjective.

[@chrisleggatt3240]

The story telling covered that well, it's so solid it could possibly feel wrong without her? That and vanes voice.

[@Inktron]

Amazing show. A bittersweet tragedy to me, as from the beginning I knew the Pirates would never win. I’ve been to Nassau. The Bahamas are now free, but it only happened 50 years ago. The fight wasn’t meaningless, but this violent story of resistance can only be told now that it is over. What once would have sparked political outrage is now artistic historical fiction. The story was compelling. Rage, freedom, and power are important themes to explore. Lots on human nature. But I think the most important is the political commentary and what it means for us today. Some people commenting clearly missed one of the main messages. *Cruelty in the name of purity and civility is still cruelty.* Even more insidious because of the mask it wears, look at Rodgers and Blackbeard. One known as an evil pirate irl just wanted a son. The governor known for restoring law and peace in real Nassau invited its total destruction and tortured Blackbeard. While this story was a twist on the truth, I will not forget the real people who died then. *The directive choices made on what was changed or added were deliberate.* I hope people got the message. I don’t care if no one reads this, but ty if you did. This show deserves more attention.

[@kunalmirani7122]

Had this on my watchlist. Started watching it when it was about to expire from Netflix. Binged the fuck out of it. Loved every minute of it. I mean the drama is authentic, the historic background, the cunning character, the spectacular naval wars, the literary dialogue and the sheer fucking charisma of the cast makes it the best series I've watched in recent memories. Such a shame it's underrated as fuck.

[@visualbarrage]

Yes! Only problem with watching it is that you know it eventually has to end 😥

[@catwrangler7907]

This is my modern day original blade runner

[@user-ns3vs3bp3e]

They really did it dirty with the lack of marketing. Everyone I got to watch it loved it but they just never marketed it properly, people just don’t know it exists

[@visualbarrage]

Very true actually, this video is kinda my way to help bring some awareness 🙌

[@chrisleggatt3240]

I do believe it will get more and more known with time. Word of mouth is benevolent, and Black sails will still be great in years to come

[@Morariu94]

I loved Black Sails! I watched it years ago but still think of it sometimes - and I guess one of those thoughts brought me to your video, and it's nice to finally hear someone talk about it.

[@visualbarrage]

You know it's good when you're still thinking about it years later! ❤ Thanks for stopping by :)

[@Razorwid]

Cracking review mate. I attend pirate events in the UK and I'm quite surprised by how many people haven't seen BS. I've been fortunate to meet some of cast members over the years. I actually own and have owned some of main character costumes from the show.

[@visualbarrage]

Thats great man! Love it! Keep letting everyone know just how good it is- Your pretty lucky to have met some of the crew!

[@manny9789]

That's got to be the best Pirate series I ever seen ☠

[@GUARDIANA01]

Absolute masterpiece with some beautiful strong characters . I agree , Flint ....is absolutely brilliant and truly one of the most amazing characters out there. So many hidden moments that make you think , care and say wtf . I watched it on STARS when it originally stopped and now again on Netflix. Unforgettable!!!! Legendary !!?🙏🤘👊 Cheers bro 🇦🇺

[@visualbarrage]

Truly one of the greats! Nice one man, well said!

[@GUARDIANA01]

@@visualbarrage absolutely mate , cheers . Ive thought hard about it and i believe Treasure Island is warranted but it would fully have to be on the same level and that's a hard ask

[@johndavidbuell]

fantastic video essay! I keep hoping that this finds a way onto Netflix or another major streaming service so that it can finally reach a massive audience

[@visualbarrage]

Much appreciated man! It deserves a massive audience. It has been on Netflix over here in NZ/Australia so I think that's help grow its popularity!

[@johndavidbuell]

@@visualbarrage oh that's awesome!!

[@southernstarresources2231]

This was epic!! Captain Flint was unbelievable 🫡🫡👍👍🔥🔥🔥❤️❤️❤️

[@visualbarrage]

Cheers man, Ikr? Toby Stephens deserved all the awards for this role.

[@user-tq4wk5pm5x]

What I love about this series is its flip-floping plot. Every time I thought someone is dead for sure, he turned out to be secure. Every time the Captain's Flint's cause to retrive the gold seems promising, there are huge barricades in the way. This is the kind of plot you can never predict. And I don't know how to describe how amazed I am by their intenlligent decisions whenever the odds aginst them are high, no matter for whichever main character.

[@thecosmicaesthetic]

Black Sails is legitimately a gem of a show. Truly great.

[@jredwood16]

I discovered Black Sails right after it wrapped its final season. It’s better than Game of Thrones, if for no other reason because it knew how to end the story well.

[@chrisculliton7135]

Mate u hit it. Underrated show.. Underrated acting I push it on people. Maybe cult follows

[@visualbarrage]

Black Sails has a brilliant fanbase! Keep pushing it onto people, there's so much room for more! ❤

[@captain4318]

Toby Stephens as Captain Flint is literally one of my favorite TV protagonists ever. Amazing show with fantastic characters. And Toby Stephens was a phenomenal lead.

[@visualbarrage]

You and me both! Favorite film/tv character by far 😁🤯

[@stephanl2409]

We need to keep spreading the word about this brilliant , brilliant show

[@visualbarrage]

100% + it's got a brilliant fanbase too! :)

[@Liz-mm1sy]

Beautiful tribute!

[@visualbarrage]

Thank you very much!

[@KadencyChicago]

Just finished it 2 minutes ago. I haven’t binged watch a show that much since criminal minds like 8 years ago lol. Wish it had more seasons. Great story writing.

[@visualbarrage]

Some of the best writing ever on screen imo. Glad you loved the show ❤

[@TaylorFootball]

I also found this show late in it's course. Everything you said is true, phenomenal storytelling and an intro track that immediately gets your blood pumping. Black Sails is easily one of my all time favorite shows.

[@visualbarrage]

Ahh shit, you reminded me of the into track again... better go rewatch xD

[@jorywalkinshaw9249]

This show slaps my chaps. I will never forget the reveal of flint's affair and the simultaneous assault by Charles vane

[@visualbarrage]

Soo many good moments!

[@user-wy5vp9xw4c]

We just watched this on Netflix and agree with everything you said. A masterpiece!

[@antkneecampy]

I loved this show. Everything about it was so well done. The care with the mixing of historical figures and the Treasure Island characters was perfect and the acting by everyone was magnificent. It was definitely underrated. Definitely had to weather the first few episodes to get into its style but it just got better and better.

[@visualbarrage]

Yep weathering the first few is all part of it... but once you get there, its perfection. :)

[@Monatio79]

"weather the first few episodes" I see what you did there w/ season one's climatic storm and shipwreck ;) But yes, this is a show which really hits its stride from the second season onwards, as much of the first season focuses on introducing and setting up the various characters. A true masterpiece! 👍

[@visualbarrage]

@@Monatio79 😁 Season 2 is one of the best!

[@tetma18]

This is my favorite tv show. Much better than Game of Thrones. You nailed it with the storytelling part. The character development is by far the best. The characters are not linear; they evolve, change. The world, other characters and events reshape them. Black Sails is the only show that I've seen which only gets better with each season; it's the other way around for the others. Toby Stephens plays Flint masterfully; top notch acting. I was kind of sad that there was no captain Flint in real life. The ending of the show was also nice. Don't miss out on this one!

[@razalin]

I'm a massive fan of the "Age of Piracy" (especially the end of it, being the early 1700s). This is when probably the most famous REAL Pirates of the Caribbean were still kicking about, in real life. Rackham, Vane, Teach, Hornigold, Read, Bonny, Stede, etc etc, The whole gang. I would have to say that Blacksails is the BEST Pirate based series I have ever watched. The mix of fictional characters and real life historical people, was an interesting decision, but I think it was executed quite well, without it being too much of a distraction. Great storytelling, great characters, great scenes. A truly incredible series and fantastic viewing. 9/10

[@visualbarrage]

It's such a fantastic show, I need more of it xD

[@CaesiusX]

Been putting this off far too long. Always disapointed I didn't watch along with _Blind Wave_ or _The Normies,_ but those videos are till there, of course. Great video. Thanks.

[@visualbarrage]

No problem man! Yes its so satisfying to watch an ep then go back and see their reactions- Its never too late to watch Black Sales!

[@matthewkuchinski1769]

I found it interesting that both "Black Sails" and "The Last Ship" have been relatively forgotten even though both series were masterpieces that immersed people into different worlds (the past/Treasure Island and the potential future) yet dealt with longtime themes that are still relevant to this day. For example, Black Sails touched upon how the iron grip of empires can compel people to either submit or resist, with varying degrees of consequence to them, and The Last Ship tackled how society will react to cataclysmic events, whether it revert to religious fanaticism, totalitarianism, or even have people fight to retain the facets of civilization that they hold dear.

[@MCampbell-hd5md]

Great analogy here. ❤

[@ravensthatflywiththenightm7319]

I honestly truly and wholeheartedly believe this is the absolute best show I've ever had the privilege to enjoy. It is perfect to me from its story to its characters.🏴‍☠🏴‍☠🏴‍☠🏴‍☠

[@visualbarrage]

Its so damn good :)

[@ravensthatflywiththenightm7319]

@@visualbarrage The greatest show ever made. The show I use as a proof of concept standard to every other show I ever enjoyed. Because every other show inevitably has what I call the cringies. But not Black Sails 🏴‍☠🏴‍☠🏴‍☠🏴‍☠

[@brentmclean4807]

Watched this from season 1 when it came out, it's in my top 3 shows of all time (Spartacus and breaking bad are the other 2) Thanks for bringing some light to this amazing show, I've never met anyone who has even heard of it hahaha. You've definitely got me in the mood for a rewatch.

[@visualbarrage]

Couldn't agree more, Top 3 bare minimum! Great list you've got there!

[@captainfutur3]

I was hooked from Episode one! Such an amazing series and perhaps the best ending ever.

[@visualbarrage]

:) The ending is fantastic!

[@m_tal939]

Brilliant video. Black Sails is one of those rare shows that's perfect in every way. The script, the acting, the special effects are all incredible and far surpass more well known shows. The ending was everything you wanted it to be, unlike many other shows, most obviously Game of Thrones. I wish Black Sails was on Netflix because I think it would gain millions of fans. The immense talent and effort that clearly went into making Black Sails deserves more recognition.

[@visualbarrage]

Thankyou for the kind words! 100% man, it's perfect in everyway. Over here in NZ/Australia I've seen it come and go on Netflix. The shows definitely grown in popularity post airing!

[@m_tal939]

@@visualbarrage here in the UK it's only on Starz which requires another subscription so everyone I'm telling to watch Black Sails is put off by the extra cost. Doesn't stop me telling them though 😄

[@visualbarrage]

@@m_tal939 Yeah I could imagine that would be a pain! Never stop letting people know though man! Gotta get the word out somehow 😅

[@Sartre_Existentialist]

I literally just stumbled on this show two weeks ago and was hooked from the start. I blazed through it and could not get enough. WATCH IT!!

[@visualbarrage]

Haha that's amazing! The problem with the show is when binging it, it all goes by so quick : (

[@bcm-n7244]

This show is beyond most TV shows of all time ... but the pirate setting is hard to digest for most people .... becase they think it's just about killing and looting ....that's the response that i got from most of my friends, and some of them get his show recommended from me at least once a year ... and i tell them that it's way much more than pirates looting and killing for treasure. But hey that's our society now ... everyone judges the book by it's cover.

[@hammersbald2807]

You nailed it. Its a underrated masterpiece. ❤

[@visualbarrage]

❤

[@Pengroves]

Having just finished my rewatch, I echo your videos opening praise

[@visualbarrage]

Glad to hear it! Time for the next rewatch yet?

[@milliehardy-sims1763]

You forgot to mention that every frame is a freaking oil painting of cinematography- and yes, EVERYBODY should watch Black Sails xx

[@visualbarrage]

The cinematography is damn good. Everybody should watch! It should be mandatory xD

[@TheMemeMachineMatt]

Probably my favourite TV show of all time. An absolute masterpiece. Have a few niggles here and there, mainly around the ending as it kind of feels like some characters deserved more or got less than they deserved, but overall a true spectacle. Found it at the end of season one and waited each year after that. Was sad when it ended after the four seasons. Blackbeard and Vane are probably the best two written pirates in any media to date.

[@chack321]

One of the best things is that it just gets better as you keep watching.

[@thecreativebohemian4927]

I’ve watched the whole series several times. Some of the greatest casting I’ve seen on a show in along time.

[@Monatio79]

Billy: "What's the target, captain?" Flint: "Whatever's left." The look on Charles Vane's face: "Finally, he sees the light."

[@visualbarrage]

Haha such a good scene 😂

[@zonzone6635]

This show is freaking incredible.

[@johns7942]

I watched it back in 2015 while I was taking a Maritime Piracy course in college. My professor said “it is the most accurate representation of pirates of that era.”

[@niccime2278]

I watch it the thrid time now and still catch new details! I love such shows. And all the characters feel somehow family like.

[@markorollo.]

Randomly found this on store shelves a couple of years ago. Decided to try it, so glad i did. Around the same time i watched Sons Of Anarchy for the first time, i know theyre set 300 years apart but i would definitely put them in the same box for plot etc. Just amazing shows.

[@julielevinge266]

Anyone familiar with Long John Silver knew him to be an incredible cleaver man. At start of Treasure Island he has £3.000 in the bank!! Now thats Rich in 1780!! He’s running a bar on Bristol docks, appears the only man Captain Flint ever feared was Ling John Silver.

[@millieil6510]

For anyone curious - Toby Stephens is Maggie Smith (Professor McGonagall's) son :) And he looks just like her. You're welcome.

[@njrivetelite]

I watched season 1 when it first was released.. then life etc And sooo many shows etc.. So it kind of fell into the background... this past couple of weeks I started over from season 1 ep 1. And made my way through the 4 seasons. Truly remarkable writing & performance.

[@elidyson256]

My number favorite tv show ever to exist.

[@itsrosebennett]

I just started watching this show three days ago and I’m already into season III. I can’t stop watching it! It’s SO good. The character arcs are done so well for all of the cast and the dialogue is amazing. It’s a masterpiece

[@visualbarrage]

It do be like that :D But I promise you'll wish you watched it slower so the show lasts longer! The 4 seasons fly by 👀

[@itsrosebennett]

@@visualbarrage That is exactly how I’m feeling now as I end season 3. 😂 I’m genuinely surprised this show hasn’t received more acclaim than it has. It hasn’t received the recognition it deserves.

[@Cthulhu013]

Absolutely right. Black Sails is AMAZING.

[@visualbarrage]

😁

[@chrisleggatt3240]

Absolutely, completely, and without a doubt agree with this.

[@retsofsivartnetloc9012]

2024 just started it it does not disappoint on any level😊

[@johngraves2417]

Black Sails and Ripper Street. Two of the greatest historical dramas out there

[@visualbarrage]

Ooo Ill add Ripper Street onto my watch list 👀

[@DUXALMUSIC]

I was lucky to find this show as it came out, and to this day it remains my favourite among all others.

[@visualbarrage]

❤️

[@thesayes6231]

More people need to talk about it! When I first watched it a few years ago, i was so disappointed to find nobody talking about it! Where are the videoessays on this masterpiece?

[@visualbarrage]

Exactly! Basically why I made this video - more people need to find out about Black Sails!

[@harrisondennis-collins4463]

Agreed, one of the best series ever made.

[@visualbarrage]

It deserves so much more recognition 🔥

[@chrisleggatt3240]

Everything I rewatch it I am reminded just how good it is

[@user-microburst]

It was awesome! Idk why they didn’t finish it. I loved the mix of real and imaginary pirates