Eleanor and Franklin: The Early Years is a compelling biographical drama that delves into the personal lives of one of the most influential couples in American history - Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States, and his wife, Eleanor Roosevelt, a long-standing First Lady known for her humanitarian efforts.

Portrayed by Jane Alexander, Eleanor is painted as a compassionate, determined, and brave woman who is well ahead of her time. She aligns her values and works towards fighting for social justice, human rights, and advocates for the rights of women and children. Alexander does an exceptional job of embodying the iconic First Lady, showcasing her courage, intelligence, and indomitable spirit in the face of various challenges. She also gives audiences a comprehensive look at Eleanor's transformation from a shy, young woman into a formidable matriarch and political figure, who often stood in the background, overshadowed by her powerful husband.

Meanwhile, Franklin D. Roosevelt, played by Edward Hermann, is portrayed as a charismatic and equally compassionate individual. He is a budding politician grappling with his ambitions, crippling medical condition, and the expectations of an entire nation. Hermann gracefully portrays the future President's transition from being a charming, high-society gentleman into a responsible leader who impacts the course of American history. The actor captures the essence of Franklin's character with sensitivity, revealing glimpses of his personal struggles masked behind his affable, public persona.

The story traces the lives of Franklin and Eleanor from their youth through their individual life trajectories before merging in marriage. These early years are imbued with layers of complex emotions, originating from personal predicaments, societal pressures, their unique familial backgrounds, and the delicate dynamics of their relationship.

At the heart of the movie lies the tapestry of the evolving relationship between Eleanor and Franklin. The film showcases the unique bond shared between the pair, from their courtship, early years of marriage, growing family, and the unforeseen medical condition that shakes their lives to the core. These instances intricately interweave the personal and political, providing viewers a rich insight into the lives of these influential personalities.

The movie does not shy away from Eleanor and Franklin's shared struggles and individual battles, both in their personal lives and in the chaos of political pursuits. Their story is profoundly human, interspersed with elements of joy, loss, failure, love, and triumphs. It examines their strained marital relationship and how it evolves into an unmatched political partnership.

The film sets a sharp focus on Franklin's struggle with polio, which leaves him paralyzed waist down. It was a monumental personal challenge that profoundly impacts his political career and personal life. Eleanor’s role during these years, as a supportive, resilient companion, is deftly outlined, showing how she often stood as the steel backbone reinforcing Franklin's political career and life.

While their love story is far from idyllic or conventional, their unique companionship contributes greatly to their collective ability to impact positive change on a national level. And even though the narrative is set in the early 1900s, its themes resonate universally, surpassing the boundaries of time and space.

The production boasts an impressive ensemble of supporting actors who bring alive the historical period, punctuated by compelling performances, dazzling costumes, and remarkable set designs that truly transport you back in time.

Eleanor and Franklin: The Early Years smartly encapsulates the era and makes powerful comments on marriage, political power, personal strength, and how to wield influence for the betterment of society. A movie not just for the history enthusiast, but for anyone who appreciates complex human stories and the challenges faced by those who shape history. This captivating biographical drama offers a unique perspective on the Roosevelts, thus adding intriguing dimensions to their characters and showcasing their lives beyond what's chronicled in history books.