Watch Versailles

Versailles is a dramatic television series that takes viewers into the decadence and intrigue of 17th-century France. Set during the reign of King Louis XIV (George Blagden), the show follows the monarch as he builds the lavish palace of Versailles and negotiates dangerous political alliances to maintain his power.

At the heart of the series is the relationship between Louis and his mistress, Madame de Montespan (Anna Brewster), who uses her beauty and wit to manipulate the king and advance her own interests. Alongside them are a cast of courtiers, nobles, and advisors, each with their own agenda and secrets.

One such character is Philippe, Duke of Orleans (Alexander Vlahos), Louis' younger brother and a conflicted figure who struggles with his own desires and loyalties. Another is Fabien Marchal (Tygh Runyan), the king's chief of police who has a complicated history with several key players at Versailles.

As the series progresses, we see Louis face challenges both within and outside his court. There are assassination attempts, rebellions, and tense diplomatic negotiations with other European powers. Meanwhile, the politics of the court become ever more complex as various factions jostle for power and influence.

The show is visually stunning, with sumptuous costumes and intricate set designs that transport the viewer back in time. The palace of Versailles itself is a setting of unparalleled beauty and extravagance, and the series makes full use of its grandeur to create a sense of scale and spectacle.

However, the show does not shy away from the darker aspects of life in Louis' court. There are scenes of violence, sex, and manipulation, all of which contribute to a sense of tension and danger that runs throughout the series.

The acting in Versailles is superb, with each member of the ensemble cast bringing nuance and complexity to their roles. George Blagden is particularly impressive as Louis XIV, capturing both the monarch's charisma and his vulnerability.

Overall, Versailles is a gripping and engrossing series that provides a rich and detailed window into life at one of history's most iconic royal courts. It combines lavish production values with strong writing and performances to create a must-watch show for fans of period drama and political intrigue.

Versailles is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (30 episodes). The series first aired on November 6, 2015.