Netflix's 'The Empress' Reimagines Princess Sisi's Story

On September 29, 2022, Netflix launched its original series 'The Empress' (originally titled 'L'imperatrice'). This six-part costume drama tells the story of Princess Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as Sissi, and her romantic relationship with Emperor Franz Joseph. It delves into their influence on the dynamics of the Viennese court and the challenges Sissi faces post-marriage, including tensions with her mother-in-law, Archduchess Sophie, and brother-in-law Maxi, alongside external threats and uprisings. The series raises questions about the sacrifices required to be an empress. It draws parallels to 1950s films featuring Romy Schneider and suggests reading Ana Polo Alonso's essay 'Sissi: The True Story of Elisabeth, Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary,' which covers Sissi's true identity, familial strife, depression, and romantic entanglements.