2 French Hdtv: Sissi Saison

The French HDTV and home media releases are generally well-regarded for their technical clarity, though some viewers have reported regional playback issues with specific imported discs.

Fans often compare it to other historical dramas like The Crown or The Empress , highlighting its emotional intensity.

The second season of the modern (2021) series, starring Dominique Devenport as Empress Elisabeth, continues to pivot away from the sugary romance of the 1950s films toward a grittier, more politically charged drama. In France, the season aired on TF1 and remains popular for its lavish production values and updated take on the Habsburg court. Season 2 Plot & Highlights

Reviewers consistently praise the costume design and cinematography, noting that the series captures the grandeur of 19th-century Austria.

Seeking escape from the "golden cage" of Vienna, Sissi travels to Hungary, where she feels a deep connection to the land and the charismatic Count Andrássy .

Critics and viewers are divided on this "modern" interpretation:

The threat of war looms as Bismarck’s Prussia maneuvers against Austria, forcing Sissi to use her diplomatic skills.