Firebrand (2023)

Interesting 'Tudor' Drama - Firebrand review by GI

A historical drama set in the court of Tudor King Henry VIII where suspicion, intrigue and danger forever lurk. It's a slice of faux history as events are interpreted based around Henry's sixth and last wife, Katherine Parr (Alicia Vikander). Trusted as Regent while Henry is overseas she has an agenda to introduce more religious tolerance and ensure the bible is available in English over Latin. She also protects her friend, a known heretic, who preaches revolution, a dangerous thing to do! This brings her into conflict with Bishop Gardiner (Simon Russell Beale) who would love to see her disgraced or worse. Henry's return reveals a king who is ailing, cantankerous and suspicious, his mind poisoned by the whispers of his entourage. Jude Law makes for a great Henry and he dominates the film with his surges of anger and pain so much so in fact that he does overshadow Vikander who plays the Queen quietly reflecting that Katherine was wise enough to know survival depends on keeping a low profile. The narrative surrounds Katherine's position as potential guardian to the future king, Prince Edward, a position Gardiner wants to avoid at all costs and Henry's gradual loss of mind as his ulcerated legs take ahold of his reason. It's a well acted film, interesting and with a great cast that includes Eddie Marsan and Sam Riley. If you liked Wolf Hall then this will be right up your street. It's certainly the best 'Tudor' drama since Elizabeth (1998)