TV Series Review - The Tudors

The Tudors Series One Film and television industries have had a fascination with history and historical characters. Henry VIII has often been the target with his life story reading almost like a medieval soap opera. He has been portrayed by a myriad of outstanding actors including Keith Michell, Charles Laughton, Richard Burton and more recently Eric Bana in “The Other Boleyn Girl” and Jonathon Rhys Myers in “The Tudors”. The historical Henry, his family life, court life and early political alliances give the background to this series and provide a fodder of material for the scriptwriters. It is a well known story and has the possibility of falling in to the mundane history lesson. But “The Tudors” does not do this. Henry was a mere mortal who had the extra burden of being the King. The personal internal conflicts of Henry found their way into the kingly role with some what more international consequence. His alliances with France, Spain and hence with Rome form the political background against which Henry seeks to annul his marriage with Catharine of Aragon to marry Anne Boleyn. Developing a character across 11 episodes becomes somewhat difficult as many more facets are able to be represented to carry the audiences’ interest. Rhys Myers definitely does this with his portrayal of the brilliant, athletic, scheming and somewhat decadent Henry VIII. He is well supported by a ensemble cast who also show they understand their roles and are able to present insights into this reformational period in time. Maria Doyle Kennedy as the trapped Queen Catharine of Aragon displays regality, torment and often bewilderment with just a look that is to understand what this woman must have gone through. As Anne Boleyn, Natalie Dormer depicts this intellectual yet flirtatious young woman who was to become the match for Henry with finesse. Cardinal Wolsey [Sam Neill] and Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk [Henry Cavill] are notable in their roles. To hear that Peter O’Toole is to join the cast in the second series as Pope Paul III adds further to the acting depth within this cast. More of the historical background of the era is able to be interwoven into the story line. The recurrence of the Black Death or “The Sweats” in 1498 throughout Tudor England is included in this series providing torment and soul-searching for Henry. This episode 7 provides great dramatic outlet for Rhys Myers who doubts his future and his ability to be King as he sees the plague of as his doing. To me, it is this additional background woven into the already complex story line that makes this series outstanding. Tightly written, well photographed with locations that are filled with magnificent costumes, set pieces and supported by a brilliant score. Again I look forward to adding this to my DVD collection when it is released.