The Franchise Review – “A Riot to Watch”

Episodes viewed: 8 out of 8

Streaming on: Heaven/NOW

There’s been no shortage of superhero films in recent years – nor of less heroic behind-the-scenes accounts to go with them. So it’s almost surprising that it’s taken this long for a show like this The franchise come along. This is the brainchild of Armando Iannucci, Sam Mendes and showrunner Jon Brown The thickness of it or Veep – a workplace satire that shines a sharp, sharply funny light on cinema’s comic craze.

From episode to episode, there seems to be no limit to the incredibly undignified chaos that unfolds on the set of the fictional superhero film “Tecto.” The chaos in question ranges from the typical nonsense – studio interference, late script edits, actors not leaving their trailers for certain reasons – to the superhero-specific. Brown’s aims in this regard are precise, his barbs are sharp. From the overwork of VFX artists to the importance placed on a perfect cameo, even the most ardent MCU/DCU fans have to admit the veracity of certain biting remarks (once they’re done laughing).

It helps that all the actors are more than committed to the role. Daniel Brühl and Richard E. Grant – both prominent members of the MCU – delight in delivering dirty, foul-mouthed dialogue, and Billy Magnussen often shows off his penchant for physical comedy as Adam, an insecure actor hoping to land his starring role in “Tecto” will boost his career. Aya Cash and Darren Goldstein are brazen delights as producers trying to save their own asses as much as the films, while Lolly Adefope brings a sunny demeanor to her third AD Dag, a warm and witty presence despite all the madness that befalls them Sentence.

But just as the best superhero films are about more than just flashy fight sequences, The franchise In the end, it’s about more than just funny jokes. Its heart is embodied by Himesh Patel’s first AD, Daniel. “When you make movies like this, and they’re good,” he muses earnestly at one point, pleading with the powers that be for a more comic-accurate, fan-friendly script, “then there’s nothing better.” The hope is that what they’re working on , could be something special, makes him the weary, capeless hero of the series, and Patel’s performance is a perfect balance of desperation and determination.

The question of whether it is worth exposing yourself to all the chaos to get to the other side cannot be answered conclusively here. But while the train wreck struck The franchise It hardly looks like much fun to take part in, but it is great fun to watch.