Preview — Franklin: Michael Douglas Takes Viewers to France as Ben Franklin
Apple TV is again exploring a vital if lesser-known moment in US history in its latest limited series, Franklin.
The series follows on the heels of the streamer’s other historical drama, Manhunt, which dramatizes the pursuit of John Wilkes Booth after he murdered Abraham Lincoln.
For Franklin, Apple is going a bit further back in US history to the country’s fight for independence. This time, the historical figure at the center is Benjamin Franklin.
Based on the book by Stacy Schiff, “A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America,” Franklin follows an elderly and already internationally famous Benjamin Franklin to France at the start of the US Revolution.
During what turns into an eight-year trip, Franklin works to convince France to support the US in its war with the British Empire. With no prior diplomatic experience, Franklin contends with British spies, French Informers, and hostile colleagues.
Relying on his charm, cunning, and fame, Franklin manages to win France’s support and change the fate of a new nation.
That’s all the more impressive given that, at the time, France was an absolute Monarchy and colonial power being asked to side with rebels questioning the absolute rule of another monarchy.
Michael Douglas, also the series’ Executive Producer, stars as Franklin. Joining Douglas in the cast are Noah Jupe (A Quiet Place), Thibault de Montalembert (Call My Agent!), Daniel Mays (Line of Duty), Ludivine Sagnier (Lupin), Eddie Marsan (Ray Donovan), Assaad Bouab (Call My Agent!), Jeanne Balibar (Irma Vep), and Theodore Pellerin (There’s Someone Inside Your House).
Check out the photos and promo video below for a preview!
Season description: Franklin explores the thrilling story of the greatest gamble of Benjamin Franklin’s career. In December 1776, Franklin is world famous for his electrical experiments, but his passion and power are put to the test when — as the fate of American independence hangs in the balance — he embarks on a secret mission to France.
Photos from Franklin:
Promo video:
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What are your hopes for Franklin? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Franklin premieres Friday April 12 on Apple TV+
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Sarah Fields
Sarah is an obsessive geek who likes to get into the weeds and over think things. She is passionate about Sci-Fi and comics and is a giant classic film nerd. Sarah cares deeply about media representation and the power of telling diverse stories. When she's not writing or watching her favorite shows she spends her days working in the non-profit world trying to make life a little better for those that need some extra help.