In a story that looks more drama, a group of people face strange events and new traditions as they travel to many places around the world, believing they come from a Russian royal family. A couple looking for their own temptations after their marriage, and a film star and director are in a battle because of what is real and what is fake.
Like its characters, the show continuously puts its worst, least interesting foot forward, aristocratically expecting you'll stick around to see the next step.
It's possible and even highly likely given Weiner's track record that he'll have greater success in subsequent installments, but despite stellar acting, gorgeous visuals, and snappy dialogue, the first two episodes do little to inspire more than a shrug.
"The Violet Hour" is an elegant and surprising love story, while "The Royal We" is a sour disappointment. But the best news: A Matthew Weiner show is back on TV.
