A young woman named Elisabeth discovers she is the surprise wife of Emperor Franz Joseph. Will the Austrian royal castle be as hospitable as she assumes the position, even though her heart is filled with love for the emperor? “The Empress,” a historical drama set in the 19th century, is loosely based on the life of Elisabeth von Wittelsbach of Bavaria.
The Archduchess Sophie (Melika Foroutan), mother of Emperor Franz Joseph (Philip Froissant), informs him that she has already chosen the candidate for the new Empress and that he must get married. Franz, however, falls completely over heels with Helene’s younger sister, Elisabeth, when they first met (Elisa Schlott), his future bride (Devrim Lingnau). In a moment of rebellion, Franz tells his mother that Elisabeth is the only one he will marry. And although Helene, who is devoted and disciplined, has been preparing herself for the role of the Empress for years, Elisabeth is unprepared for what is to come since she is naturally rebellious, restless, and raw. Will she be able to fulfil the obligations even though she shares the Emperor’s feelings?
Betrayal and Rebellion in first six episodes
The first season of “The Empress” features six gripping episodes, with betrayal and rebellion lurking around practically every corner of the palace halls. A revolt is developing outside among the common people as the huge wedding and royal party take over the palace. The wedding provides the ideal chance for the revolutionaries to plant one of their own inside the royal gates because there is poverty, hunger, and appalling living conditions. One of Elisabeth’s ladies-in-waiting is an important revolutionary who joins the cast dressed as Countess Leontine von Apafi (Almelia Bagriachik).
Meanwhile, Franz’s brother Maximilian (Johannes Nussbaum) has his scheming designs set not only on the throne but also on Elisabeth. And Franz’s mother, Sophie, reluctant to give up the power she still yields, keeps a tight control over what goes on inside the palace. Including inside Franz and Elisabeth’s bedroom. Elisabeth, resistant to the regimental rules and expectations of the palace wants to be closer to the people who she believes deserve more, finds strong opposition from Sophie. Aware of their plight, Franz habours intentions for the upliftment of his people but his borders are under threat from the Tzar of Russia on one side and Napoleon on the other. And he must confront the decision of taking a side or going to war, which the empire can ill-afford.
The excellent production qualities
The explosive combination of romance, hidden lovers, passion, duplicity, and power struggles makes “The Empress” instantly likeable. The excellent production qualities contribute significantly to the sense of wealth and monarchy, and the stunning cinematography highlights the growing alienation that Elisabeth is experiencing as the days pass. Simply said, the outfits are lavish. Whether it’s Princess Sophie’s regal silhouettes or the Empress’s regal robes, get ready to be mesmerised. Particularly the delicate white wedding dress.However, the outstanding performances ultimately steal the show. Devrim Langnou is excellent in the title role of Empress Elisabeth, Phillip Froissant exudes a boyish charm as Emperor Franz Joseph, Melika Foroutan is brilliantly intimidating and cold as the Archduchess Sophie, and Johannes Nussbaum makes an impression as Maximilian.
It is reasonable to say that “The Empress” is a worthy rival to “The Crown,” and if you enjoy historical dramas, it will win your heart.