'The Regime' Episode 1 Sneak Peek: Herbert Zubak's valiant act wins Elena Vernham's trust
Spolier for 'The Regime,' episode 1
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The intricate world of politics and a decaying authoritarian state serves as the backdrop for HBO's 'The Regime.'
Under the direction of Stephen Frears and Jessica Hobbs, the show centers around a Central European country's Chancellor, Elena Vernham (Kate Winslet), who fears she has inherited a lung illness and is always paranoid.
To keep herself safeguarded within the thick walls of her palace, she recruits disgraced solider Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts) and gives him a hydro monitor to track the level of moisture around her.
The first episode establishes the peculiar bond between Elena and Herbert, as the chancellor grows to rely on the soldier more than anybody in her life.
Herbert Zubak begins working for Elena Vernham in 'The Regime' episode 1
The episode opens with Herbert, who is under fire from the public for shooting protesters in broad daylight, killing twelve, being brought to the palace to face Chancellor Elena.
Later, Herbert receives the directive that he must now accompany the leader wherever she goes. His new responsibility involves utilizing a hydromonitor, a specialized device, to assess the air's toxicity levels.
As the soldier diligently carries out his responsibilities, he develops an unusual bond with the chancellor, who asks him to retain a graceful mind.
Herbert Zubak saves Elena Vernham from an attempted assassination
Later, at a banquet, Elena violently slaps the soldier since she deems his overly protective gestures annoying.
Subsequently, Herbert receives notification of his relief from duty to accompany Elena. Undeterred, he maintains a brave facade. In a critical turn of events, Herbert springs into action to shield the Chancellor thwarting an attempted assassination by an intruder.
His heroism earns respect from Elena, who withdraws from the public spotlight for two weeks and locks herself in a high-security facility.
As she asks Herbert for advice, the soldier boosts her confidence by encouraging her to fight back and smash everyone who believes she is weak.
'The Regime' Episode 2 will premiere on HBO and Max on March 3rd at 9pm.