#714
Post
by kevinknapman » Tue Jul 03, 2012 9:13 pm
Went to the BFI screening of The Hollow Crown: Henry IV Parts 1&2 last night. Having enjoyed Richard II on Saturday I was glad that the next two films in the season were as good (if not better) than the first.
A fantastic and impressively directed adaptation with a wonderful cast. Jeremy Irons was excellent as Henry IV and was ably supported by the likes of Julie Walters, Geoffrey Palmer, Maxine Peake, Tom Georgeson, Alun & Joe Armstrong (real-life father and son making a surprisingly moving Northumberland and Hotspur), Niamh Cusack, Michelle Dockery, David Hayman, Iain Glen and many other recognisable faces. It's greatest asset however was the perfect double act of Simon Russell Beale and Tom Hiddleston as Falstaff and Prince Hal with plenty of laughs to be had in the Eastcheap scenes. Russell Beale nails the incorrigible liar, fantasist, charmer and drunk excellently, whilst Hiddleston's journey from wastrel Prince to reluctant king was incredibly impressive. I fully expect either or both of them to get plenty of awards nods over the next year (though many of the rest of the cast could also, especially Irons).
Thrilling, funny and moving, it was a real pleasure to see this on the big screen and can highly recommend people tune in on Saturday for Part 1. It's just a shame you'll have to wait a whole week for Part 2, I was so glad I got to see it one go. The only downside - an almost 3 week wait for Henry V. Can't wait to see Tom Hiddleston tackling the more heroic king (female fans might like to know that he spends one scene in Part 2 without a top on in a steamy baths. I'm sure no-one cares about that kind of thing though).
Was also lucky to get a Q&A afterwards. Chaired by series producer Sam Mendes and joined by director Sir Richard Eyre and Simon Russell Beale, it was highly informative and very entertaining. No Hiddleston or Irons sadly but still excellent. Especially enjoyed Russell Beale's views on Falstaff and Prince Hal (They're basically total shits).
Member No.41 of the "100 free films in 2018" club! 22 seen 78 to go
Recent free films:A Star is Born, Smallfoot, Overlord, The Girl in the Spider's Web, Home Alone
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