Marie Antoinette: An intimate portrait
PBS new series adds radiance to Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI's story and many authentic views of France to enjoy.
Welcome to the Palace Drama
We have all heard the the myths; rumors or tales about Marie Antoinette that have come down through history. Many have actually originated as slanders and pamphlets distributed to the French populace before the French Revolution, and after. They often touted her affairs, her spending habits, her less than chaste activities that further fueled the hatred towards her because of her Austrian heritage. Perhaps the final nail in coffin, was the infamous “Affair of the Diamond Necklace” that put her square in the middle of a fraudulent scheme to extort money from her based on an order for what is now considered, one of the most expensive pieces of jewelry created at that time. It so involved her she agreed to appear in court to defend herself. But, I am jumping ahead in the series. Here is IMBD information on Cast/Players
Reasons for Watching Series I on PBS
I want to mention a few things that the series does really well. While the dialogue is often imagined, there are many letters and correspondence that still exist and plentiful historical records that substantiate the basis for the series. Letters most notably from Marie Antoinette’s Mother, Empress of Austria, wrote copious letters.
The Locations. By connection, the extraordinary production design and details of the period that are more than faithful, they are inspiring and atmospheric.
The Costumes. As a costume historian (*from my previous job) I can attest that the construction and creation of costumes for the main characters is almost flawless. I am sure that a great costume rental service was used for the palace and peasamt extras and they are also flawless.
The Props. furniture and food, indeed, the entire Versailles experience is further enhanced by the actual use of the location itself. The front courts of the Palace, that is the location for much of the action, is especially prominent.
The Characters. You will get an intimate, and very real portrait of the two main characters and the people that surround them. You might find yourself doing a quick google check, as some of these characters were truly influential in French history.
The Views: Many series created about this period draw heavily upon places that still have castles that exist, most notably, POLAND or other Easter Block countries that stand in, for France. Luckily for Francophiles, this series is drawing heavily on France and its views, and perhaps there are government subsidies that have helped the production.
Season II. Be sure to Watch Season I first, on PBS.
Here is the premiere Trailer for Season 2.
https://www.pbs.org/video/marie-antoinette-season-2-preview-btfxdp/
Check out this video from PBS and Paris Adventuress will return with reviews for Season 2 as it unfolds.
Editor’s note: If you sign up for our substack we also have a show all about the Mistresses of France for an entertaining summary of the pre-history of this period.