Carême

I didn't expect to like this original series from Apple+. I thought it was going to be like one of those cheesy erotic cooking videos on Tik-Tok, and Apple+ has a terrible track record when it comes to its original programming.

But, Mon Dieu, I was, how you say? Surprised.

The series is well written, and a feast for the eyes; with great period detail. They put money into this project.

Lead actor, Benjamin Voisin has bags of personality and appeal and is quite a good actor.

On another level, the French intrigue makes this a spy story, as well as, an historical one.

And the culinary aspect is very appealing.

These series loosely based on historical events around the French Revolution is beautifully filmed, sensual and so open minded, so French that it ignites your desire to live in the world. What would be the world without French pastries , food and without the French Revolution?! I loved the clothes, the style, the places and all characters. Also there is pioneering filming about a French cuisine in the 18th century, all the craziness and characters that surround one new and emerging artistic star: THE CHEF. Great entertainment through which you can also learn about Marie-Antoine Careme, one the pioneering chefs of modern history. Thanks to the producers!!

Causing the issue because something had the character or I should say actor who played the character Joseph Fouché sounding horrible and so unpleasant to the ears. The experience was that it was just someone going way over the top, trying to be evil and overacting ridiculously. It was such a distraction from the show that it took it from what would've probably been a nine down to a six for me. The rest of the acting was very enjoyable and not over the top and suited the period piece well. Every word that came out of the actor who played Joseph Fouché was just so over exaggerated and unnecessarily loud. It raked on my nerves. It really made me think this person needs to have gone and watched the show Tropic thunder and look at what Oscar winner Robert Downey Jr. Says about overacting and going to 100 when you're playing the bad guy. It's something you just don't ever do for reasons he list. Now how we ever gonna see this guy is anything other than this mousy overbearing bad acting character? I think he will have to change and play a different role with a different Voice or he's just forever going to be that character yuck! Because I enjoyed the show and didn't like having my nerves put on edge every time he talked, I wish they would redo his voice in it because that's probably not even the real Actor's voice and if somebody they just had dubbed in and they just go from being quiet to very loud way too much and with way too much emphasis in places where it just doesn't belong.

I am a sucker for a dramatic show about cooking that isn't reality TV, so I was hooked from the trailer. Still, many shows can disappoint and distract from the food, which, in honesty, this did on numerous occasions. However... it is still a great series. There is a lot of romance, deception, politics, drama, etc., but at the centre of it all is still food. Carême is the father of French cuisine, and his contributions to the culinary arts have made their way into every professional kitchen worldwide, regardless of the cuisine. I absolutely loved seeing his life displayed on screen, regardless of the accuracy. I know a lot of the drama is amped up and likely not entirely factual, but I do know the history of the culinary advancements and achievements shown in the series are verifiably true. That is enough for me to want to see encore encore encore!!!

Carême is an exceptional and stylish series that follows the rise of Marie-Antoine Carême, a young chef whose culinary talent propels him into the upper echelons of early 19th-century French society. Blending a compelling coming-of-age journey with political intrigue, the story features the likes of Talleyrand and is set against the larger historical canvas of Bonaparte's France. While gastronomy plays a central role, it is woven naturally into the plot, showcasing Carême's ambition and creative flair without overwhelming the narrative.

The series doesn't shy away from sensuality either-it's steamy in more ways than one. Romantic tension and physical passion simmer just beneath the surface, adding depth and intensity to character relationships. Benjamin Voisin delivers a standout performance in the lead role, commanding attention with charisma and emotional range.

Visually, Carême is a treat. The cinematography is elegant, the set designs are lush, and the costumes bring a modern edge to the period setting. Combined with a striking score and opening sequence, the series offers a well-rounded and immersive viewing experience that is both entertaining and richly layered.