The Regime on HBO finally saw Kate Winslet and Matthias Schoenaerts’ characters, Chancellor Elena Vernham and Herbert Zubak, consummate their complicated relationship in Episode 4 “Midnight Feast.” After weeks of tension, including slaps and “spicy dreams,” Herbert finally escapes from the palace’s prison to embrace Elena. This long-awaited moment was cathartic for viewers who had been waiting for the Butcsher and the Dictator to become lovers. The chemistry between Winslet and Schoenaerts had been building, and it was a relief to finally see them come together in a romantic sense.
The Regime is a Sunday night drama on HBO set in a fictional European country, showcasing the chaos within a dictator’s palace. Elena Vernham, a physician turned dictator, has a complex relationship with Herbert Zubak, a disgraced soldier. In the first episode, Herbert saves Elena from an assassin, earning her favor and helping to alleviate her hypochondria by introducing her to alternative remedies. The dynamic between the two characters is central to the show’s plot, with Herbert’s romantic obsession for Elena evident throughout.
Herbert’s infatuation with Elena becomes even more apparent as the series progresses. In Episode 3, their relationship takes a darker turn as he chokes her, leading to his imprisonment in Episode 4. During his time in jail, Herbert discovers that Elena has also captured her rival, left-wing intellectual Keplinger, in the palace prison. As the episode unfolds, Herbert is torn between Elena’s broadcasts and Keplinger’s seduction, symbolizing the common man’s struggle between political factions vying for his allegiance. Ultimately, he rejects Keplinger and chooses to re-enter Elena’s world, leading to their intimate encounter.
The Orwellian tone of The Regime adds depth to the storyline, portraying the ease with which a totalitarian regime can rise to power. The show takes allegorical swings reminiscent of Animal Farm, exploring themes of bleak irony and petty human drama akin to Keep the Aspidistra Flying. Within this world, Elena and Zubak’s romantic union feels inevitable, serving as a culmination of the allegory the series presents. The intricate relationships and power dynamics depicted in the show offer a complex and engaging narrative for viewers to unravel.
Overall, The Regime captivates audiences with its stunning art design and exceptional performances, particularly from Kate Winslet. The tension and chemistry between the characters, Elena and Herbert, keep viewers hooked as their relationship evolves throughout the series. The exploration of political intrigue, power struggles, and personal aspirations within the palace setting creates a compelling narrative filled with twists and turns. As Elena and Herbert’s relationship reaches a pivotal moment in Episode 4, the culmination of their desires adds a new dimension to the show’s complex web of allegory and human drama.
