In the gripping third installment of "Franklin," entitled "Pride & Gout," the narrative weaves a tale of warfare and betrayal, opening on a dramatic scene at Brandywine Creek, Pennsylvania, on September 11, 1777. Here, Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette (portrayed by Théodore Pellerin), who had answered the clarion call to defend America's independence, suffers a devastating injury on the battlefield. The episode opens with a raw and graphic portrayal of wartime medicine: Lafayette, with a piece of wood clamped between his teeth to mute his cries, endures as a doctor treats his wounded leg, setting the stage for an episode rich with emotional turmoil, sorrow, and political machinations.
The narrative then shifts to France, where Charles Gravier, Comte de Vergennes (played by Thibault de Montalembert), the French Foreign Minister, receives the shocking news of Lafayette's demise in a battle deemed as a futile endeavor. Vergennes' anger is tangible as he learns that Lafayette had defied the king's orders to journey to America, armed with a letter of commendation from Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas). This sequence of events triggers a cascade of repercussions, culminating in Benjamin's rebuke by Monsieur Gerard (Xavier Brossard) for his role in facilitating Lafayette's departure. Grieving over Lafayette's loss, Benjamin views it as a rallying cry for the alliance between France and America, a perspective that underscores the intricate dance between personal mourning and political maneuvering.
As the episode unfolds, Vergennes grapples with the formidable financial constraints that hinder France's capacity to champion America's cause with vigor. The Royal Treasurer's unwavering stance that the nation cannot bear any more debt or tolerate further tax hikes creates an insurmountable barrier. Compounding this challenge is the stark revelation that Vergennes finds himself utterly alone in his steadfast support for America, shedding light on the deep-seated divisions within the French court and the escalating pressures bearing down on the foreign minister.
Meanwhile, Temple Franklin (Noah Jupe) and Lafayette's comrades drown their sorrows in alcohol, reminiscing fondly about Lafayette's dance with Marie Antoinette. The night takes a darker turn when Benjamin is awakened by Chaumont (Olivier Claverie) to discover that Temple's horse has been found abandoned, without its rider. After an anxious search, they find Temple, nursing a hangover and asleep in a barn, tormented by guilt over Lafayette's death. In his intoxicated state, Temple confronts Benjamin about his perceived plots and schemes, sparking a fiery exchange that exposes the underlying tensions between them and the complexities of their intertwined personal and political relationships.
The episode delves deeper into the blossoming relationship between Benjamin and Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy, Ludivine Sagnier's character, as they find comfort in each other's presence. Anne, having borne witness to her husband's betrayal, seeks solace in Benjamin, and together, they forge a bond by crafting tales for park-goers. Benjamin's confession of his doubts and regrets, coupled with Anne's steadfast reassurance of her trust, enriches their connection with a profound emotional layer.
Temple's sojourn through Paris with Jacques, portrayed by Aïtor de Calvairac, unveils a facet of the city that is both seductive and disquieting. From a crude caricature mocking Benjamin to a harrowing visit to a brothel, Temple's experiences stand in stark juxtaposition to the high-stakes political maneuverings orchestrated by his grandfather. However, the episode takes a sudden and unforeseen twist when it is revealed that Lafayette is not merely alive but has ascended to the rank of general—a revelation that Temple eagerly desires to share with Benjamin.
Benjamin's endeavors to reconstruct his printing press and disseminate propaganda for the American cause encounter both advancements and obstacles. The arrival of Jonathan Austin, played by Cavan Clarke, bearing tidings of America's victory at Saratoga, invigorates Benjamin's efforts, culminating in the printing of propaganda heralding Lafayette as a hero. Yet, this triumph is overshadowed by the discovery of a traitor within their ranks. Beauchmarchais, embodied by Assaad Bouab, and Chaumont grapple with the stark reality that their plans are being divulged to the English. Suspicion falls heavily on one of them or someone intimate to them, fostering an atmosphere of tension and mistrust.
"Pride & Gout" concludes with a tangled web of intrigue and uncertainty, as Benjamin and his associates navigate the perilous currents of war, betrayal, and the pursuit of independence. This episode serves as a testament to the personal sacrifices and political manipulations that underscore the struggle for liberty, leaving viewers with a poignant awareness of the fragility of alliances and the immense cost of revolution.
