Ep 1. Episode 1

In the opening episode of the historical fiction drama series, Versailles, we are pulled into the world of 17th century France where King Louis XIV is determined to achieve his goal of expanding his kingdom's dominance and power in the continent.

The episode starts with a violent and dramatic chase scene that sets the tone for what's to come. King Louis is portrayed as a young and ambitious monarch who is constantly challenging the status quo and pushing his own boundaries. He is determined to leave a long-lasting legacy and wants to be revered for his accomplishments.

To achieve his dreams, King Louis commissions a massive palace to be built in Versailles. He intends to move his entire court to the new palace and make it the epicenter of all political, social, and cultural events in France. His adviser and confidant, Francois-Michel le Tellier, the Marquis de Louvois, is tasked with executing the king's plan.

The Marquis de Louvois is a cunning and ambitious man, and he is determined to fulfill the king's wishes, no matter what the cost. He oversees the construction of the palace and enlists a team of architects, craftsmen, and laborers to bring the vision to life. The project is a massive undertaking, and it's clear that there will be many obstacles to overcome, both logistical and political.

As the work on the palace progresses, the king's court moves to the new location. We are introduced to the key members of the court, including the queen, Marie-Therese, the king's brother, phillippe d'Orleans, and his mistress, Madame de Montespan, among others. The queen is depicted as a loving and dutiful wife, who is devoted to serving her husband and her country. She is also aware of her husband's many infidelities but chooses to look the other way.

Phillippe d'Orleans, on the other hand, is portrayed as a flamboyant and eccentric character, who is often seen experimenting with different fashion trends and makeup. He is also fiercely loyal to his brother, the king, and is willing to do whatever it takes to support him. Madame de Montespan is the king's main mistress, and she is portrayed as a cunning and manipulative woman. She is determined to stay in the king's good graces and will go to any lengths to maintain her position.

As the court settles into the new palace, tensions start to rise, and rivalries begin to form. Some members of the court are jealous of the king's attention and favor, and they plot to undermine him. Meanwhile, the king is struggling to maintain his authority, both at home and abroad.

In conclusion, the first episode of Versailles sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling and dramatic series. The characters are well-drawn, and the setting is lavish and opulent. The political intrigue and personal rivalries make for a compelling narrative that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Fans of historical dramas are sure to enjoy this series, which offers a fresh take on the reign of Louis XIV and the France of the 17th century.