'The Regime' Episode 5 Takeaway: Victor Schiff and Mr Singer abandon Elena Vernham amid civil unrest
Contains spoilers for 'The Regime' Episode 5
CENTRAL EUROPE, EUROPE: The latest episode of HBO's 'The Regime' finally addressed the notorious adage, 'There are no loyalties in politics.'
Directed by Stephen Frears and Jessica Hobbs, the series is set in a fictitious country in central Europe, where Elena Vernham's (Kate Winslet) delusional outlook is posing mounting challenges for both her nation and the ministers of the council.
From the outset of the series, Elena's overbearing attitude effectively silenced her ministers, including Mr Victor Schiff (David Bamber), Mr Singer (Henry Goodman), and Mr Laskin (Danny Webb), preventing them from challenging her dictatorial approach.
However, as the series progresses, it delves deeper into the reality of politicians who will stop at nothing to safeguard themselves. In a dramatic turn of events, Elena ultimately faces the harsh reality of betrayal by her political ally, who deceives her at the most critical moment.
Victor Schiff and Mr Singer devise schemes to topple Elena Vernham's regime
In the latest episode, the ministers' council is seen increasingly concerned about Elena's harsh decisions, which have only accelerated the country's deterioration.
As the situation escalates, some ministers have chosen to flee the country to protect themselves. However, Elena remains ignorant and self-delusion believing that everything will turn out okay in the end.
Amid the Christmas season, the ministers were outraged to witness Elena singing the Santa Baby song, completely oblivious to the unrest gripping the country.
Fearing for their safety and questioning Elena's ability to lead due to potential mental health issues, they decide to overthrow Elena's regime, giving them the right to replace her with a council of ministers.
Victor Schiff and Mr Singer support Elena's proposal to designate Herbert Zubek as her successor
Despite their initial intent to portray themselves as active members of the regime's resistance, the ministers lacked the courage to carry out their proposed strategy.
In addition, the ministers support Elena's resignation plan to name Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts) as her successor.
However, as soon as the rebels breach the palace grounds, the situation takes a catastrophic turn with Elena unable to announce the succession plan.
Aware that their own lives are in danger, the ministers flee and, in a sign of desperation, refuse to allow Elena and Herbert to board the helicopter.
The ministers, before flying away, unleashed their frustration and screamed, "She's not the Chancellor, you calf! She's just some f*****g woman," to Herbert and Elena.
The minister shuts the door of the helicopter and flies away, leaving Elena and Herbert stranded on their own.
'The Regime' Episode 5 is now available to stream on Max