From 'Turn: Washington's Spies' to 'Victoria': 3 shows like 'Franklin' to quench your thirst for political intrigue
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: History lovers were enthralled by Apple TV+'s historical drama 'Franklin', which transports viewers to the heart of the American Revolution and focuses on Benjamin Franklin's vital voyage to France.
The biographical drama series, directed by Timothy Van Patten, tells the narrative of then-70-year-old Benjamin Franklin's (Michael Douglas) unofficial eight-year series of negotiations to create a French alliance for America.
With the conclusion of the biographical series, fans were left wanting for more. So, here is a list of three shows to add to your watchlist that have the same dramatic historical intrigue and political maneuvering as 'Franklin'.
Turn: Washington's Spies
The AMC historical drama series, which debuted on April 6, 2014, explores the Revolutionary War in greater detail, akin to 'Franklin'.
The show immerses viewers in the heart of the fighting on American soil, following the seemingly normal life of Abraham Woodhull (Jamie Bell), a farmer on Long Island, as he gets enlisted by his childhood friend Caleb Brewster (Daniel Henshall) as a spy for the Continental Army.
The Culper Ring, a crew of covert colonists, formed the first espionage network used by General George Washington.
Similar to 'Franklin', 'Turn: Washington's Spies' emphasizes the immense pressure and peril experienced by individuals working for the American cause.
John Adams
The 2008 biographical miniseries delves into the life and career of another Founding Father, John Adams (Paul Giamatti), as a rising lawyer in pre-Revolutionary Boston.
It details his increasing political involvement, his participation in the Continental Congress, and his fervent support for independence.
The series was televised in seven segments, effectively capturing the first 50 years of the United States.
Much like 'John Adams', 'Franklin', provides insights into major personalities and events during the American Revolution. Furthermore, 'John Adams' emphasizes the pressure on John's relationship with his wife Abigail Adams (Laura Linney) as he devotes himself to his political career, a personal aspect that was also underlined in 'Franklin', where Franklin struggles while separated from his family in France.
Victoria
PBS's 'Victoria' explores Queen Victoria's life and reign, as well as the obstacles that come with being a young monarch leading a nation through a period of great change.
The series follows young Princess Victoria (Jenna Coleman) as she ascends to the British throne, navigating the intricacies of court life in a world controlled by males and established customs.
As the story progresses, she realizes that she needs to learn to balance her personal aspirations with the weight of her crown.
Much like 'Franklin', the biographical series 'Victoria' centers on political intrigue.
'Franklin' trailer