Kings is multi-storyline drama centering on Ian McShane’s character Silas, and his family: the rulers of Gilboa.
Kings Main Storylines
The first storyline kicks off with King Silas about to address his people on the occasion of the dedication of his newly rebuilt capital of Shiloh. He makes his way on stage, and gives a rousing speech recalling how he unified three warring territories into one country after a half-century of conflict. He also tells of how he became King through the grace of God- God sent him a sign through having a butterfly swarm land on his head in the shape of a crown; something that is repeated throughout the episode. Overwhelmingly, the crowd looks forward to the peace and stability.
The second storyline centers on David Shepherd (Christopher Egan) and his family. We’re first introduced to David and his family when they’re gathered around the television screen watching the King’s speech. The peace isn’t to last, and Gilboa goes to war against their neighbour: Gath. David, and his brother join the army and are soon posted to the front.
Posted to the frontlines is King Silas’ son Jack (Sebastian Stan). Jack along with two other soldiers is taken hostage by Gath near David Shepherd. When hears of his son’s capture Silas orders his officials not to negotiate leaving the only option an armed rescue attempt. David Shepherd ends up successfully rescuing Jack and the other hostages.
When they return to Shiloh, David is greeted a hero. A banquet is held in his honour, where he meets Silas’ daughter Michelle (Allison Miller) and immediately sparks fly. Instead of returning to the front as he expects, he is given a posting to the press office. At first he’s uncomfortable with all the attention and wants to return to the front. But as the episode ends the viewer has a growing sense he’s getting more comfortable in his position.
After a temporary peace, King Silas is forced by his brother-in-law to continue the war with Gath. The conflict costs David’s brother Eli his life setting up a pivotal moment in the episode where David takes Eli’s bloodied shirt and faces down a Goliath tank. He demands to be met by soldiers in Gath’s camp. The scene shifts back to Shiloh, and King Silas. The dialogue makes viewers realize Silas manipulated David’s actions. One of the last scenes of the episode was Silas’ brother-in-law plotting to overthrow Silas replacing him with Jack.
From the sweeping opening shot of the cityscape to some of the stunts the first episode feels like a movie instead of a television series. The war was convincing with dust flying everywhere, the way the weaponry is fired all create a convincing battlefield atmosphere.
Story's Symbolism, Presence of Religion
The story is loosely based on the biblical tale of David& Goliath. There’s a scene where David faces a tank branded with Goliath. He also takes a wrench, which, is shaped like a slingshot. The butterflies as a symbol of Kingship make a return in the very final scene: David looking out over a balcony as a swarm of butterflies land on his head, making a crown.
Religion plays a part in this story. The idea of Silas as King anointed by God is a reference to absolutist kings who thought themselves Gods on earth. The symbolism of the butterflies on David’s head gives meaning to the idea that God has abandoned Silas.
This show has it all; Jealousy, romance and intrigue. It’s described as a soap opera but feels like a Shakespearean drama. It’s a show that makes viewers think, but in its premiere episode clearly demonstrates that it’s worth the time to watch.
If you loved Ian McShane as Saloonkeeper Al Swearengen in the HBO hit Deadwood, tune in and see him as King Silas Sundays at 8pm on NBC.
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