Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne Season 1 Episode 1 Episode 1
- April 10, 2018
- 43 min
Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne is an Austrian period drama set in the 15th century. The show follows the tumultuous marriage of Maximilian of Austria, played by Jannis Niewöhner, and Marie de Bourgogne, played by Christa Théret.
In the premiere episode titled "Episode 1", we are introduced to the two main characters and their families. Marie is the only daughter of the Duke of Burgundy, Charles the Bold, played by Tobias Moretti, and is promised in marriage to Maximilian, the son of Emperor Friedrich III of Austria, played by Fritz Karl. The two families meet in the city of Arras to negotiate the terms of the wedding.
Marie is reluctant to marry Maximilian, as she is still in love with her childhood friend and former suitor, Antoine, played by Luca Marinelli. She is also worried about the power dynamics between Austria and Burgundy, and fears that her country will be overtaken by the larger and more powerful Austrian empire. Despite her reservations, Marie is pressured by her father and advisors to go ahead with the marriage.
Maximilian, on the other hand, is eager to marry Marie and consolidate the power of the Habsburg dynasty. He also hopes to strengthen the relationship between Austria and Burgundy and sees the marriage as a way to achieve this. However, he faces opposition from his own father, who does not approve of the match and wants Maximilian to focus on the affairs of his own country.
The episode also introduces us to the other key players in the story, including Marie's aunt Margaret of York, played by Miriam Fussenegger, and Maximilian's advisor, Markwart von Randeck, played by Alexander Beyer. Their presence adds to the complexity of the plot, as both characters have their own agendas and are not necessarily aligned with the wishes of either Marie or Maximilian.
Throughout the episode, tensions run high as the negotiations continue and the two families try to find common ground. At one point, Marie and Antoine share a clandestine moment, which complicates the already tense situation. Meanwhile, Maximilian and his father have a heated argument about the marriage, which underscores the power struggle between them.
The episode ends on a cliffhanger, as Marie and Maximilian's wedding ceremony is interrupted by an unexpected guest. The identity of this person is not revealed, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats and eager to find out what happens next.
Overall, this premiere episode sets the stage for an epic tale of love, power, and political intrigue. The performances by the talented cast are impressive, and the lavish production values transport viewers back in time to a world of knights, royalty, and courtly machinations. Whether you are a fan of historical dramas or simply enjoy a good romance, Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne is a show you won't want to miss.