Divorced, beheaded... Survived

Review by regular contributor Val Ruloff 

Divorced, beheaded... Survived, as we learn in lessons about Tudor history and the marriages of King Henry VIII. 

Vis-a'-vis survival of Queen Katherine, in particular. Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII and the only wife who outlasted the King whilst still married to him.

The story of the life of Katherine Parr is a fascinating piece of history in and of itself... and more than worthy of telling. The historical, factually accurate account of Katherine Parr's life and times is most intriguing and fascinating.

"Firebrand" departs from this route though, to take a reimagined approach. It is a film based on historical events and is inspired by Elizabeth Fremantle's book, "Queen's Gambit". The resulting story portrayed in the film is a revisionist account.

Ingredients are all here to present a hugely interesting and absorbing movie. Henry VIII, his six wives and the Tudor period are guaranteed to provide an endless source of fascination. The film portrays events and details of life and experiences during this era of history unflinchingly. It expresses some realities in stark and unsparing terms. There are scenes which are harrowing to watch, confronting as they do some of the most cruel, inhumane and abusive of human behaviours. There is graphic content about physical illness, medical treatments and surgical procedures... as well as explicit sexual content at times. Squeamish sensibilities do not have a place here... realism is depicted. This is certainly not a romanticised version of events.

The leading roles are very well cast. Alicia Vikander gives an impressive performance as Katherine Parr.

Jude Law is Henry VIII. His performance is very powerful, he commands all eyes and attention. We are riveted to him each time and in every scene he features. Famous characters are well portrayed in the supporting roles. Junia Rees plays Princess Elizabeth; Sam Riley plays Thomas Seymour; Eddie Marsan is Edward Seymour; Simon Russell Beale plays Stephen Gardiner and Erin Doherty is Anne Askew.

Photography is used to heavy metaphorical effect in the film. The shady darkness and shadows, grey and overcast skies indicate bleakness and portentous doom. The changing of the seasons to portray emerging brightness and light, sunshine, birdsong and new growth evoke the dawning of a new age. The locations are very well chosen and achieve realism. The costumes are sumptuous.

Shock tactics ultimately come into force, according to the narrative of this film.

Survived. By the skin of her teeth.