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The King: Even Royals have Fake Friends

November 1st brought the beginning of the holiday season, preparations for Black Friday, and the much anticipated film, The King, on Netflix. Directed by David Michod and producers/actors Joel Edgerton and Brad Pitt, this movie was one viewers couldn’t wait to be dropped on the streaming service. 

Timothee Chalamet as King Henry V | Photo Courtesy IndieWire

 This Shakespeare-adapted film is a grand total of two hours and filled with captivating imagery. Set in the 15th century, the film is about one of England’s greatest kings, who only rose to the throne after a cruel twist of faith. The King struggles with his pacifist beliefs, among a cabinet of advisors consumed by blood lust and want for conquered lands.

The King presents a character who faces a relatable inward battle with his moral values. When advisors and conflicting evidence it moves King Henry V to second guess him and his ideas, which often happens to even the strongest beliefs. However, the consequences are greater for The King. The difference being, one is a leader of a nation, the other watching it play out on their laptop in 2019.

The period-piece features Oscar-nominated Timothée Chalamet as English King Henry V and the reputable Robert Pattinson as the French Dauphin. The film holds a sense of irony with Chalamet, who is of French descent plays an English king and Pattinson, born and raised in London, as the French dauphin.

French Dauphin played by Robert Pattinson | Photo Courtesy of The Daily Cardinal

The grim depiction of Medieval battles Chalamet’s character faces is indisputable, leaving a somber mood that the cast takes to heart. Although Pattinson seemed to have other ideas in mind. His over-the-top French accent almost comes off comical,  a much-needed injection of energy in the otherwise solemn atmosphere (intentional or not). Pattinson plays the Dauphin as an unhinged maniac that leaves a lasting impact despite the little amount of screen time. 

King Henry V on the throne | Photo Courtesy of Consequence of Sound

Leading actor Timothée Chalamet is shown in a completely different light than any of his previous roles. Meth-addict teen, hopeful college student, and man in love are all roles we’ve seen Chalamet play. This film truly allowed viewers to glimpse another side to Chalamet and his diversity as an actor. A memorable scene in The King is when Chalamet as King Henry V, rallies his troops before the Battle of Agincourt. The inspiring speech held a sense of empowerment that could be felt beyond the screen. Netflix’s newest historical-drama was very well executed and had great performances across the board. There are no shocking plot-twists but the film seems to do just fine without them. Slow parts are bound to happen in a 2-hour movie, but The King powers through them and concludes with a satisfying ending.

Written by Leyana Nabi

Leyana Nabi is a junior and the sunburn editor for the MC Sun. She's always down for a good laugh and is an avid fan of the Mamma Mia movies.

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