Released in 2019, The King is a gripping historical drama based on William Shakespeare’s Henry IV plays, directed by David Michôd.
With Timothée Chalamet playing the titular role of King Henry V, the film dives into the conversion of a young prince into a reluctant ruler, faced with a bloody war and the burdens of leadership.
But does the film deliver on its promises?
In this review, we will take a closer look at the opinions of critics and viewers to help you decide if it’s worth watching.
Plot Summary of The King (2019)
The King follows the journey of Hal (Timothée Chalamet), the son of the deceased King Henry IV.
Initially disinterested in the royal life, Hal spends much of his time with lowborn companions in taverns.
However, after his father’s death, he is unexpectedly crowned King Henry V.
Struggling with the weight of his new responsibilities, Hal is forced into a brutal conflict with France, culminating in the historic Battle of Agincourt.
Throughout the film, Hal’s character evolves from a carefree youth to a determined king, grappling with power, leadership, and loyalty, particularly in his relationship with his mentor, the seasoned warrior John Falstaff (played by Joel Edgerton).
Critics and Audience Reviews
Critics’ Reception
The King has received praise for its grounded take on historical drama, with Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Henry V standing out.
Critics admire his ability to capture both the youthful recklessness and the emerging strength of a king, offering a fresh and vulnerable interpretation of the character.
David Michôd’s direction is also lauded for bringing Shakespearean themes to life in a more modern and accessible way.
The film’s historical accuracy, particularly in battle scenes and medieval politics, is another point of acclaim.
Despite these strengths, some critics note that the pacing can be uneven, with slower character moments feeling drawn out.
While the intense battle sequences are compelling, the quieter, self-reflecting scenes may not appeal to those accustomed to more action-heavy epics.
Scores
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Rotten Tomatoes: 71% (Critics)
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Metacritic: 67/100
Overall, critics are divided but acknowledge The King as a solid historical epic that successfully balances character development with intense action.
Audience Reactions
Viewers seem to share many of the sentiments expressed by critics, with praise for the film’s performances, particularly Chalamet’s portrayal of the conflicted young king.
Fans of historical dramas and Shakespearean adaptations appreciate the authenticity and depth of the character dynamics, including the tense relationship between Henry V and his mentor Falstaff.
On the other hand, some viewers find the film’s pacing a bit slow, especially those who are not as invested in historical dramas.
The absence of more conventional action movie tropes leaves some viewers longing for more spectacle.
However, the film’s emotional depth and exploration of power dynamics keep audiences engaged, especially those who enjoy character-driven stories.
Scores
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IMDb: 7.3/10
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Rotten Tomatoes: 70% (Audience)
Overall, viewers recommend The King for fans of historical dramas but caution that its more thoughtful pacing may not appeal to those looking for high-octane action.
Film’s Historical Accuracy
| Aspect | Details | Rating (1-10) |
|---|---|---|
| Historical Accuracy | The film remains fairly true to the historical narrative of King Henry V’s reign, especially in its portrayal of the Battle of Agincourt. Some deviations in character relationships. | 8 |
| Character Portrayal | The film takes creative liberties with Falstaff’s role, portraying him as a father figure to Henry, a relationship not in Shakespeare’s original work. | 7 |
| Battle Scenes & Costumes | Gritty and realistic, with detailed battle scenes and authentic costumes, these elements add to the film’s historical authenticity. | 9 |
| Dramatic Effect vs Accuracy | The film condenses certain historical events for dramatic impact, focusing on Henry’s psychological transformation rather than precise accuracy. | 7 |
| Political Intrigue | Effective portrayal of the political struggles during Henry’s reign, adding depth to the historical period. | 8 |
| Overall Entertainment | A compelling blend of fact and fiction, offering an engaging depiction of the historical period, even with some liberties taken. | 8 |
Key Themes to Check Out
The film portrays the internal and external conflicts faced by a young prince as he ascends to the throne and becomes a powerful, yet conflicted, king.
- Power and Leadership: Hal’s change from a carefree prince to a decisive king, figuring out the weight of kingship and the difficult choices a ruler faces in war.
- Betrayal: Examines how personal relationships are tested and betrayed in the pursuit of power.
- Loyalty: Focuses on Hal’s ever-changing relationship with Falstaff and his advisors, highlighting the complexities of loyalty during times of conflict.
- Cost of Power: Central to the story is the theme of the personal sacrifices and emotional toll that come with leadership.
Filmmaking Techniques
Through atmospheric visuals, gripping battle sequences, and a haunting score, the film immerses the audience in the intense and emotional feeling of leadership and sacrifice.
- Cinematography: Dark, moody lighting and sweeping landscapes create a somber and intense atmosphere.
- Battle Scenes: Tense and realistic portrayals of medieval warfare, despite not being as large-scale as some historical epics.
- Score: Composed by Nicholas Britell, the film’s haunting and understated melodies add emotional depth to the story.
Is The King Worth Watching?
Overall, The King is a solid historical drama.
It offers a fresh take on the life of King Henry V. Timothée Chalamet delivers a powerful performance, and the film’s theme of leadership, loyalty, and power provides a compelling narrative.
However, its slow pacing and lack of traditional action movie excitement may deter some viewers.
If you are a fan of Shakespeare adaptations, historical epics, or character-driven stories, The King is worth watching.
