Emilia Schüle & Louis Cunningham Discuss the History Behind 'Marie Antoinette'

As a historical figure, Marie Antoinette is often held up as the epitome of wealth and privilege in a time when monarchies were rapidly losing their hold on power. Most school children learn of her as the uncaring ruler who seemed confused at the peasants having no bread, declaring, "Let them eat cake!" before being beheaded forthwith. Previous attempts at reconsidering her on film have not gone well either; Sofia Coppola's 2006 production, starring Kirsten Dunst, failed badly with critics. But the newest retelling of her life story, Marie Antoinette, a FrancoBritish show from Canal+ and the BBC, may finally set the record straight.

It helps that the titular character, who started life as an Archduchess of Austria, is played by German actor Emilia Schüle, whose career in her native country began at 14 — the same age as Marie Antoinette was when she was sent across the border to marry the French Dauphin and heir to the throne, Louis-Auguste. Her fiance is played by British actor Louis Cunningham, who has the tough job of playing an anxiously shy second son who accidentally wound up the heir, surrounded by a family he cannot trust, and a marriage both are forced into, despite its disastrous unpopularity.

When asked about trying to break away from previous portrayals of Marie Antoinette, Schüle is passionate in defense of her character. "Marie Antoinette is a misunderstood person," she declares.