'The Regime' Episode 2 Sneak Peek: Herbert Zubak's manipulation intensifies over Chancellor Elena Vernham
CENTRAL EUROPE, EUROPE: HBO's most recent miniseries, 'The Regime,' shares a regal feel similar to 'The Crown,' yet distinguishes itself as it delivers an unconventional perspective on a nation headed by a chancellor, or more accurately, a dictator.
Created by Will Tracy, the series made its HBO premiere on Sunday, March 3rd, and its premiere episode laid the groundwork for the impending unrest in the fictitious country of Europe.
The series follows the life of a nation's chancellor, Elena Vernham (Kate Winslet), as she strives for a grip on power in the brutal world of politics.
In an inept attempt to take charge, she appoints Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts), an ex-soldier, as her advisor. However, her increasing reliance on Herbert foreshadows imminent challenges that have the potential to undermine her leadership and push the nation into a state of anarchy.
Corporal Herbert Zubak feeds country medicine to Chancellor Elena Vernham in 'The Regime' Episode 2
It was fairly obvious following the events of the first episode that Elena's confidence in Herbert had increased significantly. With his appointment as the Chief of Palace Health & Safety, the former soldier now wields even greater influence over the chancellor.
Elena has been subtly persuaded by the man to place her trust in him above all others, and she is gradually succumbing to his schemes.
To alleviate her anxiety about developing a hereditary lung condition, the individual provides her with an unconventional remedy, which primarily consists of potato steam.
Moreover, he tricked her into believing that she had vomited poison when, in reality, the vomiting could have resulted from the adverse effects of some of the country's medications.
Herbert Zubak suggests Chancellor Elena Vernham to get rid of Emil Bartos
The richest man in the nation, Emil Bartos (Stanley Townsend), must also endure the damage caused by Herbert's influence, as he advises Elena to get rid of the man.
Emil sought to make Elena grasp the gravity of the situation by recommending that she should not have severe relations with America as it could lead to many economic troubles for the nation.
His suggestion, however, doesn't sit well with the disgraced soldier, who, using his manipulation tactics, influenced Elena to have him berated in front of a full-fledged press conference.
During the conference, she criticized the businessman for his business ties with Americans, labeling them as unethical.
She humiliated Emil further by instructing him to sweep the palace grounds just before he was about to leave.
'The Regime' Episode 3 will premiere on HBO and Max on Sunday, March 17th at 9 pm.