Michael Douglas owns the show as one of America’s Founding Fathers.
Michael Douglas stars as Benjamin Franklin in the new AppleTV+ series “Franklin.” Based on Stacy Schiff’s book “A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America,” this miniseries is off to a good start with a three-episode premiere.
The show is not about how he discovered electricity with the key, the kite, and lightning. But rather, it’s about how Franklin spent his years in France to convince King Louis XVI to support America’s war against England. The American Revolutionary War to be exact. He’s joined by his grandson William Temple Franklin (Noah Jupe), who also serves as his associate during their visit.
Both of them are invited to stay as Monsieur Chamout’s guests at the Valentinois. It might be a way for him to help Franklin with his mission.
They also have their episodes, like how Franklin fancies the married musician Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy (Ludivine Sagnier), and how William becomes accustomed to the French ways. So, the young man has to feel his grandfather is being bossy to him. But the old man knows his chess playing skills. And of course, the history involves intrigue and deception.
There are moments that aren’t as fresh as the leading performances are, because they appear to be lagging in ambiance and humanity. But most of the show, so far, is beautifully photographed and acted, especially by Douglas and Jupe. Douglas has the age and tone to morph as Benjamin Franklin, while Jupe is able to broaden his horizons as a young actor.
“Franklin” is something for history buffs and for Douglas fans, because of how the show wants to be told from the perspectives of the book and how certain shows can present them. I’m not comparing this show to history books, because even we still have to learn about our American history in school. I’m saying it’s a good show to watch on your couch from your computer or TV. Whatever you prefer to watch AppleTV+ on.
Again, we were given a 3-episode premiere, but we’re still eager to see the rest of this series. For now, Kirk Ellis and Howard Korder both write it with style, while Tim Van Patten directs with commitment. Don’t worry. You won’t get electrocuted here.
Now Streaming on AppleTV+
