Apple TV+ ‘Franklin’ Episode 7 Review - Fading Strength, Rising Tension

Episode 7 of "Franklin," titled "Begin by Creeping," serves as the penultimate chapter of the series, offering a compelling exploration of the aftermath of the British surrender in Virginia and its implications for the burgeoning nation. As Franklin grapples with the weight of his physical deterioration, another Congress representative visits him, accompanied by the ever-tenacious John Adams. The episode navigates themes of resilience, mortality, and political intrigue, setting the stage for a gripping conclusion to the series.

Let's begin with the positives. One of the standout aspects of this episode is its nuanced portrayal of Franklin's physical decline. As the aging statesman confronts the realities of his failing health, viewers are given a poignant glimpse into his vulnerability and mortality. Michael Douglas's performance is particularly noteworthy, capturing the nuances of Franklin's struggle with grace and sensitivity. The scenes depicting Franklin's physical deterioration are both heartbreaking and illuminating, offering a poignant reminder of the toll time takes on even the most formidable figures.

Additionally, the exploration of political dynamics in the wake of the British surrender adds depth and complexity to the narrative. The arrival of another Congress representative, accompanied by John Adams, injects a sense of urgency and tension into the episode, as Franklin navigates the delicate balance of diplomacy and pragmatism. The interactions between Franklin, Adams, and the visiting representative crackle with intensity, highlighting the divergent perspectives and agendas at play within the fledgling government. The episode's focus on political maneuvering and negotiation underscores the high stakes involved in shaping the future of the nation, captivating viewers with its intricate plotting and sharp dialogue.

In "Begin by Creeping," while the narrative delves deep into Franklin's physical deterioration and the political ramifications of the British surrender, the episode suffers from an incoherent scene schedule that disrupts the flow of the storytelling. Abrupt transitions between scenes, often without sufficient context or resolution, leave viewers feeling disoriented and disconnected from the overarching narrative. This disjointed structure detracts from the episode's impact, robbing pivotal moments of their emotional resonance and leaving certain plot threads feeling underdeveloped and unsatisfying.

Furthermore, the episode's color grading and visual aesthetics fall short of expectations, failing to capture the gravitas of the penultimate chapter in the series. The subdued color palette and lackluster cinematography undercut the dramatic tension inherent in Franklin's physical decline and the looming specter of the finale. Moments that should evoke a sense of urgency and foreboding are dulled by uninspired visuals, diminishing the episode's overall impact and leaving viewers craving a more immersive viewing experience.

The penultimate episode of the series, "Begin by Creeping" fails to build sufficient momentum toward the upcoming finale, leaving certain storylines feeling unresolved and anticlimactic. While the exploration of Franklin's physical deterioration and the political fallout from the British surrender offer moments of intrigue, the episode ultimately falls short of delivering the dramatic payoff viewers have come to expect. With the finale looming on the horizon, "Begin by Creeping" leaves much to be desired in terms of narrative cohesion and emotional resonance, casting doubt on the series' ability to stick the landing in its final hour

In conclusion, Episode 7 of "Franklin" delivers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of resilience, mortality, and political intrigue. While it may have its flaws, the episode ultimately succeeds in delivering an engaging viewing experience that leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the series' conclusion. With its nuanced performances, intricate plotting, and thematic depth, "Begin by Creeping" is a fitting penultimate chapter in this gripping historical drama.

Final Score- [6/10]