Concerning Franklin
Michael Douglas was a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe when we last saw him in the Ant-Man movies as Hank Pym. The seasoned actor portrays an American in Versailles in the limited series Franklin on Apple TV+, where he plays one of the nation’s founding fathers. The historical drama centers on Benjamin Franklin’s protracted stay in France, during which the venerable statesman was dispatched to win the French people over to America’s cause of independence.
Franklin: Storyline
While they fight to convince Foreign Minister Count Vergennes (Thibault de Montalembert) to support America, Benjamin and his grandson Temple Franklin (Noah Jupe) have a slow and arduous time throughout their time in France. George Washington, the nation’s commander in chief, believed it was impossible, and the situation for the Americans was so bad when Franklin opens in December 1776. When good news doesn’t come their way, Benjamin and Temple, who become something of a small celebrity in an adoring French society, wait. Not that there’s much time for romance, what with the British and French watching every move they make.
Franklin: Composing and Guidance
Based on Stacy Schiff’s book A Great Improvisation, the television series realistically depicts a significant period in the septuagenarian’s life when he secretly bargained on behalf of a developing nation, thanks to co-writers Kirk Ellis and Howard Korder. It makes sense for Oscar winner Douglas to be the show’s lead, but the relatively lengthy episodes essentially cover the same ground. In episode three, a disagreement eventually breaks out between the grandfather and the grandson, but it is still unsolved. Director Tim Van Patten does a good job of recreating the era, but the emphasis is primarily on French territory.
Franklin: Exhibitions
Douglas is endearing as the well-liked figure who attracts attention everywhere he goes. His act also has more than a whiff of the Hollywood star’s real personality. Though he only gets to respond to events around him, Jupe’s portrayal of the youthful Temple is endearingly genuine. The series offers several French performers an opportunity to shine, such as Lupin’s Ludivine Sagnier and Call My Agent’s Thibault de Montalembert and Assaad Bouab. For the time being, Douglas and Sagnier’s character are flirting.
Franklin: Evaluation
The historical drama focuses on a pivotal moment in history when the colonies fighting for their freedom from the all-powerful British Empire valued every tiny triumph or defeat highly. Viewers are kept interested by the royal intrigue at Versailles as well as Benjamin’s cunning plans to win allies for his cause. For many, it unfolds pretty slowly, though. Fans of Douglas should stay put because the seasoned actor is still quite talented. Franklin won’t satisfy your need for rapid gratification, though. On May 17, the eight-episode series will come to an end. Up until then, Franklin will air a new episode every Friday.
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