फ़्रैंक्लिन

I love Michael Douglas as an actor. He has had some great roles and really lights up the screen. But I can't buy him as Benjamin Franklin. His distinct voice in particular just made me think "oh that's Michael Douglas in a period piece". I was waiting for him to bust out with some slick monologue about Wall Street. As such, I couldn't get involved with the story about Franklin.

The costumes and set designs are fantastic and Franklin the man had an epic life, so if and when I get past the casting I hope to make it through the entire series. Apple TV has released some really high quality programming.

There were so many things which frustrated me about this show as I'm a fan of Franklin, American history, this particular story and time period, and Mr. Douglas - it had the makings of greatness.

Unfortunately, there are just too many things weighing it down. While the subtitles were not an issue (try watching Shogun!), the story and script just dragged and droned along at such a glacial pace that it was painful.

Douglas was not at his finest. I thought the casting might have been great, but it wasn't. Douglas was flat and seemed to be struggling with a bad cold or throughout the series. He was just bland.

The directing was terrible. No pace, no excitement, no fun. It just trodded along, seemingly lost.

Sad. There was potential.

In the hallowed halls of history, Benjamin Franklin stands as a towering figure, revered for his intellect and ingenuity. Apple TV+'s "Franklin" delves into the lesser-known chapter of Franklin's life, illuminating his pivotal role in securing French support for the American Revolution. Led by the venerable Michael Douglas in the titular role, "Franklin" emerges as a compelling exploration of one man's quest to change the course of history.

From the outset, it's evident that "Franklin" is a labor of love, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of its titular character and the tumultuous era in which he lived. Douglas's portrayal of Franklin is nothing short of masterful, imbuing the Founding Father with a blend of wit, wisdom, and humanity that is as captivating as it is authentic. Whether navigating the treacherous waters of diplomacy or indulging in his more hedonistic pursuits, Douglas's Franklin is a delight to behold, anchoring the series with his undeniable charisma.

Director Tim Van Patten, known for his work on acclaimed series like "Boardwalk Empire" and "The Sopranos," brings his signature style to "Franklin," infusing the series with a sense of grandeur and gravitas befitting its subject matter. From the opulent salons of Paris to the dimly lit corridors of power, Van Patten's keen eye for detail ensures that every frame is a visual feast, transporting viewers to the heart of 18th-century Europe.

But perhaps the true triumph of "Franklin" lies in its ability to humanize its titular character, presenting him not as a mythical figure, but as a flawed and multifaceted individual. Far from being a one-dimensional hero, Franklin is portrayed as a complex and nuanced figure, grappling with doubts, desires, and moral dilemmas as he navigates the murky waters of diplomacy. It's a testament to the writing team's skill and sensitivity that Franklin emerges as a fully realized character, complete with all the contradictions and complexities that define us as human beings.

Of course, Douglas's performance is bolstered by a talented supporting cast, including Noah Jupe as Franklin's grandson Temple and a host of European actors who bring the world of 18th-century France to life. Together, they create a rich tapestry of characters, each with their own motivations and ambitions, adding depth and dimension to Franklin's world.

While "Franklin" may occasionally falter in its pacing and narrative structure, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise stellar series. At its core, "Franklin" is a celebration of one man's indomitable spirit and the power of diplomacy to shape the course of history. It's a timely reminder of the importance of perseverance, ingenuity, and above all, the belief that one person can indeed make a difference.

In conclusion, "Franklin" is a triumph of historical storytelling, offering a nuanced and compelling portrait of one of America's greatest statesmen. With its stellar cast, sumptuous visuals, and engaging narrative, "Franklin" is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in history, politics, or simply good storytelling. So, immerse yourself in the world of 18th-century Europe and prepare to be captivated by the remarkable tale of Benjamin Franklin.

This is well written, features beautiful set design and absolutely stunning costumes. From the details in period hair and makeup to mannerisms and gestures, the show is visually entertaining. There is quite a bit of dialogue and story lines to keep up with, be prepared. I had to pause a few times to let some of the underlying aristocratic humor sink in.

Keep expectations low for the portrayal of Franklin, the man. His character (or is it just Michael Douglas?) lacks the sincere charm and wit that was surely omnipresent of the Franklin who saved America from defeat. I would have liked to have seen either a brief list of accomplishments in the opening or retro reel to give Franklin's celebrity some clout for the viewer.

No, scratch that last part. I am just disappointed with Douglas. Zero charm. Total lost opportunity to portray a truly great American icon. Other than that, a well done show.

I'm enjoying it immensely so far through five episodes. Benjamin Franklin spoke multiple languages, but French was definitely not one his strongest. The show depicts his imprecision with the language which I appreciate from a historical accuracy standpoint.

I'm thrilled the Marquis de Lafayette is a central figure in the story. The guy was a rockstar and deserves his modern day due. I am intrigued by the French side of the story regarding America's War for Independence. You can see the seeds being sown placing France's civilization on the brink of collapse.

For those who are not history buffs, there will be moments of "is that true?!" You'll think it's just modernizing history. But you'll find the more things change, the more they stay the same.