Apple TV+ ‘Franklin’ Episode 6 Review - The Power of Choices

Episode 6 of "Franklin," aptly titled "Beauty and Folly," delves into the aftermath of a tragic death indirectly caused by Franklin's actions, igniting a firestorm of public discourse and personal reflection. As Franklin grapples with the consequences of his pursuit of evidence, his determination to find his missing grandson, Temple, clashes with Temple's growing rebellious streak. Meanwhile, John Adams brings forth a proposal for a treaty between the US and England, despite Franklin's warnings, setting the stage for a clash of ideologies and a test of wills.

One of the episode's most compelling aspects is its unflinching examination of Franklin's moral quandary. The death of a man indirectly influenced by Franklin's actions serves as a sobering reminder of the weight of responsibility and the far-reaching consequences of one's choices. The scenes depicting Franklin's inner turmoil and the public discourse surrounding the tragedy are handled with sensitivity and nuance, offering viewers a thought-provoking meditation on morality and accountability in the face of adversity.

Temple's storyline serves as a captivating counterpoint to the political machinations and moral dilemmas unfolding in the episode. His growing rebellion against authority and the quest for independence mirrors the broader themes of revolution and generational conflict prevalent throughout the series. As Temple navigates the turbulent waters of adolescence and grapples with his own identity, viewers are drawn into his journey of self-discovery and redemption, rooting for him to find his place in the world amidst the chaos.

Amidst the multifaceted drama of "Beauty and Folly," the storyline involving John Adams emerges as a beacon of intrigue and political maneuvering. Adams' proposal for a treaty between the US and England injects a sense of urgency and tension into the episode, setting the stage for a clash of ideologies and a test of diplomatic finesse. His unwavering determination to push forward with his proposal, despite Franklin's objections, adds depth to his character and underscores the complexity of the political landscape. Adams' storyline serves as a compelling reminder of the high stakes involved in the fight for independence, highlighting the sacrifices and compromises necessary to navigate the tumultuous waters of revolution.

While "Beauty and Folly" excels in its narrative depth and character development, it falls short in its technical execution, particularly in terms of camera work and lighting. Throughout the episode, there are instances where the camera angles feel uninspired, failing to capture the full emotional weight of pivotal scenes. The lack of dynamic shots and creative framing detracts from the visual impact of the storytelling, leaving certain moments feeling flat and underwhelming.

Furthermore, the digitalization and lighting choices in certain scenes leave much to be desired. There are instances where the digital effects appear artificial and disjointed, pulling viewers out of the immersive historical setting and into the realm of artificiality. Additionally, the lighting in certain scenes feels uneven and inconsistent, casting distracting shadows and detracting from the overall visual cohesion of the episode. These technical shortcomings diminish the overall viewing experience, detracting from the otherwise compelling narrative and character-driven drama.

In conclusion, episode 6 of "Franklin" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant installment that explores themes of morality, accountability, and generational conflict with depth and nuance. While it may have its flaws, including technical issues and moments of melodrama, the episode ultimately delivers a compelling and satisfying viewing experience that will leave viewers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this gripping historical drama.

Final Score- [6.5/10]