La Revolution Season 1 Episode 1 Chapter One - The Beginning

In the opening of La Revolution's first season, we venture to the historical world of France's late 18th century. The first chapter, aptly titled 'The Beginning', lays out the foundations of a tense and revolution-plagued society- a society that would ultimately shape the country's future for generations to come.

The show's opening moments feel straight out of a novel from the era - we're transported to a castle in the French countryside, where we meet the nobles who are anxiously waiting for the royal representative, Duke of Orleans, to arrive for one of their infamous soirees. We quickly understand the hierarchical society of France, where noble families work hard to maintain their social status, living in luxury, and enjoying lavish meals.

Yet, it's evident from the outset that society is in turmoil as the beginning of a revolution looms overhead. We see a group of people in masks, among them, the protagonist Joseph Guillotin, wearing an instantly recognizable mask. They discuss a secret mission targeting someone at the noble's gathering. Once the Duke arrives, we witness the distinction between the rich, high-born society, and the lower class as they partake in an old custom known as the "baiser de paix".

Despite trying to showcase their civility, it's clear the nobility holds scathing opinions of the working class, with the Duke himself referring to peasants as "vermin" in a conversation with his son. As the night wears on, we see bits of unrest beginning to take hold amongst the servants who feel disillusioned by their treatment in society. Meanwhile, the masked group makes their move and the night quickly takes a dark and bloody turn.

Without spoiling anything in this episode, 'The Beginning' does an excellent job of shedding light on the conditions that led to the French Revolution by painting a picture of a society that is rotting from within. Themes like class divide, lack of resources, and the excesses of the rich are highlighted throughout the episode. It's clear that the people of the lowest rungs of society were facing new lows daily, and something had to change to alter that course.

The show's cinematography is outstanding, capturing the grandeur of the French castle in a way that illustrates how the aristocracy thrived on pomp and circumstance. Almost every frame seems like it was composed by a master painter: the lighting adds to the drama, drawing the viewer into what's happening on-screen. When the action starts, the camera work becomes frenzied and chaotic, adding to the chaos one would expect during a revolution.

The acting is also on point, with each actor delivering riveting performances that captivate the viewer. We see glimpses of the nobles' decadence, but they also portray their fear of being overthrown well. The peasants are overworked, they feel oppressed, and the sadness in their eyes is palpable. The masked Parisians, whose ultimate goals remain a mystery, are portrayed with quiet intensity. Joseph Guillotin, played by Amir El Kacem, is stoic and even-keeled, hiding his frustrations underneath a veneer of calm.

Overall, Chapter One of La Revolution season one sets the show up for success by providing a perfect introduction to the revolutionary state of France in the 1700s. It manages to captivate the viewer with beautiful cinematography and fantastic performances while laying down core themes and setting the mood for what's to come. The show is sure to grab your attention and leave you eager for more.