Set against the backdrop of World War II, The Man Who Lived at the Ritz is a heart-warming tale of love, sacrifice, and survival amidst the chaos of war. The show follows the story of a dashing French nobleman, Count de Chambrun (Joss Ackland), who seeks refuge at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, along with his American wife, Mary Kirkpatrick (Leslie Caron), and their two children. It is here that he befriends an American writer, Toby Lush (David McCallum), who is staying at the hotel as a war correspondent.
As the war rages on, the Nazi forces invade Paris, making life increasingly difficult for the guests at the Ritz. Count de Chambrun, who is a French Resistance fighter, risks his life constantly in order to protect his family and the other guests at the hotel. However, his courage and conviction ultimately have a profound effect on the lives of those around him and help pave the way for their eventual escape.
Meanwhile, Toby Lush finds himself falling in love with the Count's daughter, Lisl (Lynsey Baxter), and must decide whether to stay behind with her or return to America to continue reporting on the war. As the situation at the hotel grows more precarious, the love between the two blossoms, leading to a heart-warming and emotional finale.
Filled with tension, danger, and romance, The Man Who Lived at the Ritz is a captivating drama that showcases the bravery and courage of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. The performances by the cast members, particularly Joss Ackland and Leslie Caron, are exceptional, bringing depth and nuance to their roles and capturing the essence of their characters with great skill.
The show also features stunning cinematography and atmospheric music, which transport the viewer to the streets of Paris during one of the most tumultuous periods in world history. The attention to detail in capturing the period setting and the blend of historical events with fictional characters make for a truly engaging and immersive viewing experience.
In conclusion, The Man Who Lived at the Ritz is a must-watch for anyone who loves a gripping and romantic wartime drama. The show expertly balances the themes of love, loss, sacrifice, and bravery in a way that is both poignant and inspiring. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the resilience of the human soul in the face of adversity.
The Man Who Lived at the Ritz is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between June 23, 1989 and on FilmRise