'Franklin' Episode 1 Takeaway: Count of Vergennes oppose Benjamin Franklin's diplomatic maneuverings
Contains spoilers for 'Franklin'
PARIS, FRANCE: Apple TV+ has finally dropped the first three episodes of a highly anticipated biographical series on America's Founding Father Benjamin Franklin.
The series named after him depicts his eight years in France to convince the country to help America in its fight against Great Britain.
The series opens with Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas) and his grandson, William Temple (Noah Jupe) arriving in Paris where his old friend Edward Bancroft (Daniel Mays) introduces him to some influential people in France.
Why did Benjamin Franklin and Count of Vergennes meet secretly in Apple TV+'s 'Franklin'?
In 'Franklin' Episode 1, we see the Count of Vergennes (Thibault de Montalembert) expressing his opinion that France should aid America in their battle against Britain, asserting that it would help France seize Britain's trade and make them taste defeat for once.
Vergennes faces opposition from other French ministers, including the Majesty as they don't want to drag France into the affairs of two conflicting nations, further endangering their land and peace. The Majesty then orders Vergennes to not indulge with Franklin.
However, Vergennes, being an intelligent man, knows that being neutral in this situation won't be good for them in the long run. And therefore, when Franklin contacts him, he agrees to a discreet meeting.
Is Benjamin Franklin able to persuade the Count of Vergennes in Apple TV+'s 'Franklin'?
Franklin reminds Vergennes of the lands they have lost to Britain in the previous war. He asserts that aiding America would be a win-win situation for both nations as America will gain freedom while France will avenge its humiliation.
Despite being aware that America's freedom will open trade opportunities, Count Vergennes expresses his reservations against the alliance.
He is unsure of Franklin's loyalty which keeps shifting. Vergennes reminds Franklin that he was earlier loyal to the British crown and was convinced of British superiority.
As Franklin's dedication to America's cause is questioned, he replies that he has learned from his experience.
However, Vergennes continues to show resistance, knowing that Franklin is in a conflicted position.
While he is fighting for America's independence, his son is in America's prison as he is found guilty of committing treason to Congress, and expressing loyalty to the English king.
When Vergennes questions if he would be ready to petition for the hanging of his son, Franklin feels wounded but remains adamant that he is driven by the urge to free America.
At this point, Vergennes doesn't offer an alliance and Franklin has to walk away empty-handed. Vergennes not only doubts Franklin's ability to stick to the cause but is also tied by the Majesty's orders.
He wants to help Franklin but also has to be sure of everything before placing his bets on Franklin as it would be a big political move that could cause unrest in France.
In the upcoming episode, we'll see Franklin attempting new ways to gain aid from France to lay the foundation of America.
Three episodes of 'Franklin' are currently available to stream on Apple TV+.
