Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne

Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne is a gripping historical drama series first aired in 2017. Produced by the renowned Austrian broadcasting corporation ORF and the German television network ZDF, the series is a gripping portrayal of power politics, heritage, familial conflicts, and love amid the aristocracy of the Middle Ages. It remarkably highlights the historical significance of the titanic figures of Maximilian I, the future Holy Roman Emperor, and his wife, Mary, Duchess of Burgundy.

The narrative weaves the fascinating tale of Maximilian of Habsburg, archduke of Austria, and Mary of Burgundy's tumultuous journey. The union, which was initially a tactical political move, unfolds to be a passionate and affectionate relationship. The series chronicles their aspiring dreams, shared ambitions, dramatic court intrigues, and raw emotional connections, developing a rich tapestry of court life in the 15th century.

Set in the late Middle Ages, the atmosphere created by the series doesn't lose sight of the realities of those times. An era marked by violence, war, political instability, and social upheavals, the lust for power and dominance is a fundamental theme. The series shines a light on the realities of royal life, stripping away the romanticized veneer that often surrounds royalty's depiction to reveal the central characters' human vulnerabilities and strengths.

At the series' heart is the complex character of Maximilian, a young and ambitious archduke, keen to extend his dominion, who is caught in the political intricacies and battles of the time. Jannis Niewöhner plays the role of Maximilian in a manner that manifests his varied shades – a passionate lover, a tactical royal, a gallant warrior, and a vulnerable human. His portrayals ensure that audiences see the character in a light that is authentic, multidimensional, and entirely engaging.

Equally impressive is Christa Théret’s depiction of Mary of Burgundy. She brings to life the complexities of a young woman who inherits a kingdom at just 19 and must face the political world's perilous complexities. She convincingly portrays a young duchess poised between a realm of powerful men endeavoring to control her and her ambitions.

Using lavish sets, ornate costumes, and meticulously recreated battle scenes, the series brings alive the period's grandeur and brutality. Filmed in exquisite locations in Austria, Germany, and the Czech Republic, the series is visually impressive, capturing the magnificent landscapes and architecture that hallmarks Europe's Middle Ages. The series blends its grand period aesthetics with a consistently paced narrative, engaging audiences with its visual beauty and compelling storytelling.

The supporting cast, including Tobias Moretti, Jean-Hugues Anglade, and Miriam Fussenegger, among others, contribute to Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne's richness. They play a pivotal role in bringing to life the intricate political and personal dynamics of 15th-century nobility.

The series proves educational, offering insights into European history, particularly concerning the genesis of the Habsburg Empire. Their reign brought a significant shift in the European power dynamics, and this series takes viewers on a back-in-time journey to the very roots of this transition. Still, it’s not just a historical chronicle; the series does well to dive into the personal lives of the imperial couple, their struggles, making it a potent mix of history and drama.

The original score by Stefan Will and Marco Dreckkötter is also worth mentioning. The music captures the essence of the medieval period and the different moods and tones of characters effortlessly, contributing to the overall cinematic experience.

In summary, Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne is a historical drama series that performs the deft dance between big-picture historical depiction and intimate human narrative. It paints a visually stunning and narratively complex tapestry of politics, romance, betrayal, war, and the compelling characters who navigate these choppy waters. Beautifully crafted with impressive performances, the series captivates its audience, making it a must-watch for fans of period dramas.