Wonderful period costumes and elegant English dialog; the French dialog with English subtitles adds to historical authenticity, but it can be distracting. The overall series may be slow moving, if not boring at times, but the immersive depth of Benjamin Franklin's diplomacy with the French - and subsequently with the British - depicts what a true statesman he really was. Were it not for Franklin's largely unsung endeavor to gain French support for the American Revolution and ultimate founding of the United States, the U. S. would likely not have become an independent and self-determining country. Wonderful actor choices, especially Michael Douglas.
33 Reviews
Unveiling the Intrigue of Benjamin Franklin: A Bright Spot on Apple TV+ with "Franklin"
notwokeshows12 April 2024
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.
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.
Just not good
mark-120-97090628 April 2024
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.
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.
Stunning visuals, drab Douglas
pablovmsp14 April 2024
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.
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.
If You Have A Problem With Subtitles, You'd Better Speak The Language
Vvardenfell_Man25 April 2024
The number of posts on here that complain about the presence of subtitles in this multi-lingual production is maddening. Apparently closed captioning makes things unwatchable. And apparently the only possible way to improve this show is to stick a fake nose and wig on Michael Douglas, judging by other reviews that don't make as much mention of subtitles.
Deal with it. This is a great production. It looks beautiful and the performances are good. The story is relatively timely, too, managing to draw effective parallels between 18th- and 21st-century ways of conducting diplomacy.
Seriously, if you have a problem with subtitles, go away.
Deal with it. This is a great production. It looks beautiful and the performances are good. The story is relatively timely, too, managing to draw effective parallels between 18th- and 21st-century ways of conducting diplomacy.
Seriously, if you have a problem with subtitles, go away.
It's Douglas, being Douglas, being Franklin
gbaileymershon15 April 2024
Grasping who did what in what war has always been difficult for me. I much prefer Tom Wilkinson's Franklin in HBO's John Adams. Great example of British versus American acting styles. Wife and I are watching as much as I we can, ignoring Douglas, focusing on events. Half of Madame Brilion advice about gout is correct. Avoid alcohol, especially red wine. Avoidance of women is incorrect, Removal of fluid, is good, all bodily fluids contain uric acid, which crystallizes and lodges between joints, usually farthest away fro heart. Great role for Robert Mayes as Dr. Bancroft. When does Slow Horses return?
Marquis de Lafayette!!!
seantg-681862 May 2024
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.
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.
Ultimately, boring
fmdead6 May 2024
I've stuck with this because it's an interesting piece of history I didn't know much about, but it's actually incredibly dull. There's no tension, it's basically Franklin and his grandson waiting around in Paris to secure a treaty from the king. Even after that's achieved, it's more waiting around. The political "intrigue" is just tedious, it doesn't build any suspense or have you eager to find out what happens next. It's always fun to see Michael Douglas, but there is no inkling through his characterization or dialogue of how this larger-than-life figure could charm anyone and was a great and imaginative thinker. The weakest link is the grandson - who cares? His storyline - if you can even call it that -- is meandering and uninteresting. The only redeeming point of interest of this series is simply the costuming and setting and some tidbits if you're a die-hard history fan.
Excellent historical dramatization
jzwolak-5708920 April 2024
Based on historical facts, Franklin is an engaging show. The writers clearly used accounts of Benjamin Franklin's personality and writings as well as little historical details that pepper this show with a kind of richness that is delightful. Some writer's license is taken here and there, but I find it's an excellent historical account of an 18th century political sparing complete with espionage, romance, treachery, and heroism. It does not cease to deliver.
This is one of the most captivating shows I've watched in a long time. If you like historical dramas, this is probably for you. It's hard for me to see the show outside the lens of historical drama, as I really like such shows and movies. I find myself constantly thinking "did that really happen" then I look it up and sure enough... it did. Or, "what was that like back in 1777/1778?" and I feel inspired to dig deeper and learn more.
This is one of the most captivating shows I've watched in a long time. If you like historical dramas, this is probably for you. It's hard for me to see the show outside the lens of historical drama, as I really like such shows and movies. I find myself constantly thinking "did that really happen" then I look it up and sure enough... it did. Or, "what was that like back in 1777/1778?" and I feel inspired to dig deeper and learn more.
A historical drama with the wrong lead
Tomaslillebror22 April 2024
The story is circling Benjamin Franklin around the end of 1770 when aparently he went to France to gather support against the brittish in the American attempt to become a free independent nation. I cant say much of the accuracy of the story but this depiction seems rather vapid to me and more focused on details than the core story. Maybe because the core story itself isnt very exciting but rather booring.
The production is fairly big and thus the scenography, picture, music and sound is generally good and of quality but the story and script is lagging behind and doesnt deliver much excitement. You will see beautiful and well dressed people but less exciting interactions between people. The writers are failing and actors are stiff and lacks spark to create interest. The picture is also a bit dark, filmed in the light of candles and fog mostly, which seems unnecessary and dulling.
Michael Douglas is the acting lead depicting Franklin in this drama and Im not impressed. He has problem standing, walking and talking straight, its like he is drunk. The reason for this is likely old age or some medical issues. In any case this is a crucial problem since the story circles him. Michael Douglas ineptitide to accurately depict Franklin instead of being himself, kills much of the suspence that is built in the story, creating a loss of interest. I hate to say this because Michael Douglas was a good reliable actor that delivered pre covid(-2019).
The "diversity" aspect. Unfortunately they couldnt leave this historical portrait alone and attempts to rewrite history. They include black people both in the background and as main characters when there where no black people in France at the time and especially not at the social status depicted. They also included the depiction of a transexual and pretend Franklin would have treated him with interest, understanding and respect, which is not likely.
If you like historical dramas in the late 1700s France and dont mind watching a seemingly drunk playing Franklin and dont mind other serious inaccuracies of history, then this series is for you.
6/10 for everything but Michael Douglas as Franklin.
The production is fairly big and thus the scenography, picture, music and sound is generally good and of quality but the story and script is lagging behind and doesnt deliver much excitement. You will see beautiful and well dressed people but less exciting interactions between people. The writers are failing and actors are stiff and lacks spark to create interest. The picture is also a bit dark, filmed in the light of candles and fog mostly, which seems unnecessary and dulling.
Michael Douglas is the acting lead depicting Franklin in this drama and Im not impressed. He has problem standing, walking and talking straight, its like he is drunk. The reason for this is likely old age or some medical issues. In any case this is a crucial problem since the story circles him. Michael Douglas ineptitide to accurately depict Franklin instead of being himself, kills much of the suspence that is built in the story, creating a loss of interest. I hate to say this because Michael Douglas was a good reliable actor that delivered pre covid(-2019).
The "diversity" aspect. Unfortunately they couldnt leave this historical portrait alone and attempts to rewrite history. They include black people both in the background and as main characters when there where no black people in France at the time and especially not at the social status depicted. They also included the depiction of a transexual and pretend Franklin would have treated him with interest, understanding and respect, which is not likely.
If you like historical dramas in the late 1700s France and dont mind watching a seemingly drunk playing Franklin and dont mind other serious inaccuracies of history, then this series is for you.
6/10 for everything but Michael Douglas as Franklin.
It's a shame about Michael Douglas
krazyj247200222 April 2024
Awful. Just awful. I couldn't watch more than 15 minutes. I suppose there comes a time in every big name actor's career where they just can't act anymore and basically just play themselves. I think Tom Hanks might be at that stage. But I'm okay with that because I love Tom Hanks. That being said, I've always enjoyed Michael Douglas in roles, most recently The Kominsky Method. He was really very good in that. I did not get the "I'm just me playing me" vibe even though he was playing an actor. THIS however, was just painful to watch. His voice, his delivery, all of it, was just off. I learned the little I know about Franklin's stay in France from HBO's John Adam's so I was looking forward to learning more! Not from this show.
Excellent mini-series but...
ChazCone24 April 2024
The mini-series has great production values and the story of Franklin's ultimately successful negotiations with the French which saved the American Revolution is gripping.
The switching on and off of subtitles to account for the French-speakers was very distracting, taking one's eyes from the screen. The solution might have been to switch all the dialog to English after a few scenes.
But my biggest problem with the production is Michael Douglas, an actor whose work I greatly admire. That they did next to nothing to alter his appearance to resemble Franklin is distracting. I suppose he refused to have his hairline moved back another six inches and to not to have a nose prosthetic may have been vanity. But all I see is Michael Douglas, not Benjamin Franklin. Contrast this with other bio-based productions and, at least, the main character has been made to look like the subject.
This is not to say that Douglas doesn't deliver an excellent performance, but his appearance as Douglas rather than Franklin is as distracting as the subtitles.
The switching on and off of subtitles to account for the French-speakers was very distracting, taking one's eyes from the screen. The solution might have been to switch all the dialog to English after a few scenes.
But my biggest problem with the production is Michael Douglas, an actor whose work I greatly admire. That they did next to nothing to alter his appearance to resemble Franklin is distracting. I suppose he refused to have his hairline moved back another six inches and to not to have a nose prosthetic may have been vanity. But all I see is Michael Douglas, not Benjamin Franklin. Contrast this with other bio-based productions and, at least, the main character has been made to look like the subject.
This is not to say that Douglas doesn't deliver an excellent performance, but his appearance as Douglas rather than Franklin is as distracting as the subtitles.
A Bit of a Letdown
tomtpcarpe15 May 2024
Being a rabid history buff, I looked forward to watching this series. Unfortunately there were just too many distractions built in. It is historically pretty accurate, save Michael Douglas as Franklin. He just didn't make a convincing Franklin. And, I understand the desire for authenticity, but there was way too much French language dialogue, thus too many subtitles. And, being an old fart (I knew Franklin personally), the subtitles were much too small. I spent too much time squinting at the screen. That doesn't make for an enjoyable experience. Perhaps I expected too much, or I'm too demanding, but I can't recommend Franklin.
It's 4,387 hours of Michael Douglas butchering the French language.
kinkyrabbitpdx22 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
As well as my ears.
Basically this is a French depiction of Benjamin Franklin visiting France with a couple of American actors mixed in for good measure.
There's some dancing... And some breaking wind... And some chess playing... And eating has been included as well.
There's also a good measure of breathing. Pretty much just people walking around breathing and speaking.
Throw in a few wigs and you've got a period piece.
Pretty much the most exciting thing so far was Franklin landing on a beach in Brittany. But even that was slightly too dark to really see. Plus it was raining.
Welp, that's gonna wrap it up for me.
Basically this is a French depiction of Benjamin Franklin visiting France with a couple of American actors mixed in for good measure.
There's some dancing... And some breaking wind... And some chess playing... And eating has been included as well.
There's also a good measure of breathing. Pretty much just people walking around breathing and speaking.
Throw in a few wigs and you've got a period piece.
Pretty much the most exciting thing so far was Franklin landing on a beach in Brittany. But even that was slightly too dark to really see. Plus it was raining.
Welp, that's gonna wrap it up for me.
Can't get past the Michael Douglas casting
mster197815 April 2024
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.
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.
I loved it!
pdccycwmhx18 May 2024
This was really good. Michael Douglas and cast were really awesome. Gave us a glimpse into Franklin's life during his time in France. Not your typical action series, more of a thought provoking drama. But very good and it held my attention for the whole series. As an America, I get excited and very proud watching our founding fathers. Their dedication and devotion to winning the war and succeeding from Great Britain brings tears to my eyes sometimes. And this series did on occasion, I hope Apple TV does more historical dramas; the aren't only entertaining, but they teach history as well. Well Done!
It's Just OK
douglasmcbroom18 May 2024
This is not the brilliant HBO Series 'John Adams.' It lacks the budget, the cast and the writing. Michael Douglas is as miscast as Ben Franklin as Tom Wilkinson was perfect. I like Eddie Marsan, but he's no Paul Giamatti. Elfin Noah Jupe is horribly miscast as Temple Franklin and looks like a kid playing dress up. He is also at the center of most of the saccharine and unnecessary melodrama.
I am a huge fan of Executive Producer/Director Tim Van Patten (The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire) but historical drama might not be his métier, as quite clearly French is not Michael Douglas's!
The pace of the series slowed to a crawl by the aptly entitled 'Begin By Creeping.'
What this series succeeded beautifully in doing is making me want to rewatch the outstanding 'John Adams!'
I am a huge fan of Executive Producer/Director Tim Van Patten (The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire) but historical drama might not be his métier, as quite clearly French is not Michael Douglas's!
The pace of the series slowed to a crawl by the aptly entitled 'Begin By Creeping.'
What this series succeeded beautifully in doing is making me want to rewatch the outstanding 'John Adams!'
Bravo Ben Franklin!
jlastra19 May 2024
At the risk of revealing a 'spoiler' as regards the end credits, I register a strong disagreement in that Ben Franklin was never properly 'thanked'.
He may have not been lauded in such a fashion as the French regarded Lafayette however in a democratic republic he has been honored with his face on the One Hundred Dollar bill.
Only he and Alexander Hamilton hold that distinction over Presidents.
This is a very entertaining and educational effort and I applaud Apple TV for it. Michael Douglas is simply brilliant in every way.
Such a critical role of Franklin to secure the support of the French in the great Revolution, otherwise there is no America.
The troops, the money and the leadership of the Marquis De Lafayette all came about as a direct influence of Ben Franklin.
History regards him as one of the key Founding Fathers much in the same manner as George Washington.
Though he was not a soldier, fighting on the front lines, what he did is not less important or critical to the success of birthing a new nation.
He was and remains a true Patriot.
He may have not been lauded in such a fashion as the French regarded Lafayette however in a democratic republic he has been honored with his face on the One Hundred Dollar bill.
Only he and Alexander Hamilton hold that distinction over Presidents.
This is a very entertaining and educational effort and I applaud Apple TV for it. Michael Douglas is simply brilliant in every way.
Such a critical role of Franklin to secure the support of the French in the great Revolution, otherwise there is no America.
The troops, the money and the leadership of the Marquis De Lafayette all came about as a direct influence of Ben Franklin.
History regards him as one of the key Founding Fathers much in the same manner as George Washington.
Though he was not a soldier, fighting on the front lines, what he did is not less important or critical to the success of birthing a new nation.
He was and remains a true Patriot.
Subtitle are great now and again. But having to read almost the entire show is too much
fairclough-2785114 April 2024
Slow moving. Too much French with subtitles.
I have watch the first two episodes, it seemed to take forever. My eyes are tired from trying to read the subtitles. Good thing it moves slow so I can keep up. I'd say the dialogue is strange but Franklin is talking to the French. I's bound to be strange. I kept expecting them to fade into English. I've seen it in a couple of movies, they start in one language with subtitles then it transforms into English.
Michael Douglas would was not the first actor that came to mind when thinking about Franklin. But he is a great actor and does credit to the part, as usual.
I have watch the first two episodes, it seemed to take forever. My eyes are tired from trying to read the subtitles. Good thing it moves slow so I can keep up. I'd say the dialogue is strange but Franklin is talking to the French. I's bound to be strange. I kept expecting them to fade into English. I've seen it in a couple of movies, they start in one language with subtitles then it transforms into English.
Michael Douglas would was not the first actor that came to mind when thinking about Franklin. But he is a great actor and does credit to the part, as usual.
America fishing for guns and culture
holisticvision_sigma20 April 2024
This is a reconstitution of the troubled times when America needed help from Europe against England. And more than that: it is an on-spot Apple bet, a great experience, with location "extravaganza", great costume reconstitution, a few good actors, and more. A superficial incursion in manners and languages of those times was tried and so we have an "epoque-drama" that is very interesting and leaves us wanting more. Franklin deals with a task to help his fellow Americans bring money and guns to the American cause. But it is in general a great chance to see America as a character in a different type of geopolitical drama. Also, it is enough to send a mainstream streamer to run away - American streamers will not like having French people speak French. ["Vide" Shogun for a great History reconstitution. But look, Portuguese in Shogun also is not spoken - they opted for English.] {My favorite model is "Pachinko" and the subtitle scheme they have found.} Resuming, it's a detailed flix, that lacks depth and fails to bring the real danger that Americans were confronted with. Is this a french-fries-friendly series? Well, no. But french fries are also not French, right? You'll need to have a cultural background to watch this.
Captivating
amaurileonardi23 April 2024
The story is captivating, and the production is meticulous. Michael Douglas is excellent and offers the additional ingredient that keeps you glued to the screen. By the way he looks like the Franklin we all picture. Awsome figurines and make up. Outstanding french actors in this production brings a sense of realism, but unfortunately, the constant subtitles are so distracting. There's so much content surrounding Benjamin Franklin that the series could have more seasons covering other phases of this character's life. It IS worth watching despite the constant switching between English and French, which can be a bit tiresome.
Disappointing
geegers23 April 2024
I couldn't get past Michael Douglas's portrayal of Benjamin Franklin, it's like finger nails on a chalkboard. I don't know what the director was thinking or how he thought Mr. Douglas was a good choic for the role. I wish the role would have have been recast once they saw how wrong he was for the role. He is a talented man in the right role, he was great in The Kominsky Method, Falling Down, The war of the Roses, Fatal Attraction, Wall Street and many other movies and t.v. Shows. All the other actors are doing a great job, It's such an interesting time in our nation's history and the life on Ben Franklin.
About 2 episodes too long, but so many choices were the right ones
caitriona-shanahan20 May 2024
I'm a European (Irish), so my knowledge of the American Revolutionary War is piecemeal at best. So much in this beautiful drama series helped me to understand what happened, and its impact on European history.
One could imagine an alternative history where France did not bankrupt itself in helping the USA achieve independence. Would there have been a French Revolution? And if no Revolution, would there have been Napoleon? Would the expansion of the Britain's Empire been kept in check by a long and expensive war in the American colonies?
And so we come to the place of Benjamin Franklin in world history. This series deftly displays the talent, skill and luck he had. I thought Michael Douglas was marvellous, played the weary cynic, daring himself to believe and hope in his dream.
The supporting cast was also superb, as is to be expected when you have the cream of French acting at your disposal (along with all those real life locations). To ask such a cast to speak in English (as Apple did recently in the much weaker series on Dior) is ridiculous. They delivered in spades, and it wasn't always necessary to understand the words being spoken to grasp the emotions.
Individuals have complained about having to read subtitles. I feel the separation that subtitles cause is a fantastic reminder of what Franklin, Adams & Jay faced. They were fighting for their country's life, but constantly hindered by the language differences.
My real problem with the series is with the time given to Temple Franklin. Yes, it is an important part of Benjamin Franklin's personal story, along with his romances. But I felt the telling of Franklin's personal life interfered far too much with the main, historical story. I believe Episode 6(?) was pretty much about Temple, and it really uninteresting.
I was glad that having painted John Adams as such an asshat, we got a chance to see that he was actually a good and decent (if Judgey!!) person. To see Comte de Vergennes as a living person rather than a name in history books, who made big bets that lost in the end.
Yes, definitely worth the watch although I'd prefer an abridged version with the Temple byline.
One could imagine an alternative history where France did not bankrupt itself in helping the USA achieve independence. Would there have been a French Revolution? And if no Revolution, would there have been Napoleon? Would the expansion of the Britain's Empire been kept in check by a long and expensive war in the American colonies?
And so we come to the place of Benjamin Franklin in world history. This series deftly displays the talent, skill and luck he had. I thought Michael Douglas was marvellous, played the weary cynic, daring himself to believe and hope in his dream.
The supporting cast was also superb, as is to be expected when you have the cream of French acting at your disposal (along with all those real life locations). To ask such a cast to speak in English (as Apple did recently in the much weaker series on Dior) is ridiculous. They delivered in spades, and it wasn't always necessary to understand the words being spoken to grasp the emotions.
Individuals have complained about having to read subtitles. I feel the separation that subtitles cause is a fantastic reminder of what Franklin, Adams & Jay faced. They were fighting for their country's life, but constantly hindered by the language differences.
My real problem with the series is with the time given to Temple Franklin. Yes, it is an important part of Benjamin Franklin's personal story, along with his romances. But I felt the telling of Franklin's personal life interfered far too much with the main, historical story. I believe Episode 6(?) was pretty much about Temple, and it really uninteresting.
I was glad that having painted John Adams as such an asshat, we got a chance to see that he was actually a good and decent (if Judgey!!) person. To see Comte de Vergennes as a living person rather than a name in history books, who made big bets that lost in the end.
Yes, definitely worth the watch although I'd prefer an abridged version with the Temple byline.
Franklin and Adams...
don-damon17 May 2024
Just finished watching this mini-series. I love historical series and this one was one on my "must watch" list.
The story was well, written. Douglas did a fair job as Franklin. Some of the episodes were a bit dreary, but finally came to a fine finale.
I should also like to think that Douglas, could personally learn from doing this series, as his personal politics needs an overhaul. I would like for him to understand what America is about and what it stands for, and not cheap political shots. We can only hope that what Franklin accomplished, did not go down in vain. Long live the United States of America.
The story was well, written. Douglas did a fair job as Franklin. Some of the episodes were a bit dreary, but finally came to a fine finale.
I should also like to think that Douglas, could personally learn from doing this series, as his personal politics needs an overhaul. I would like for him to understand what America is about and what it stands for, and not cheap political shots. We can only hope that what Franklin accomplished, did not go down in vain. Long live the United States of America.
Snoozfest...
stevenr314-121 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
...definition: "an event, experience, etc. That is extremely boring." I have to apologize to those who suffered through because I only watched a little bit of the first episode before falling asleep and later could not summon up the energy to go back to it.
SPOILER ALERT: I thought the scene where all the French commoners were in the street thanking Franklin for discovering electricity was a little silly. When Franklin visited France to request their help with the war I don't believe the use of electricity was wide spread in French people's homes. It wasn't until the late 19th century until use of electricity was widespread. Not sure why everyone was cheering like they had electric appliances.
SPOILER ALERT: I thought the scene where all the French commoners were in the street thanking Franklin for discovering electricity was a little silly. When Franklin visited France to request their help with the war I don't believe the use of electricity was wide spread in French people's homes. It wasn't until the late 19th century until use of electricity was widespread. Not sure why everyone was cheering like they had electric appliances.
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