The King Movie Review: A Chalamet Thirst Trap (But Also Yay History!)
DISCLAIMER: I actually watched this movie almost a year ago, but since I’m a little behind on content this week, I’m digging it up from the archives hehe. Enjoy!
The King is a Netflix period film based on a real story about the British King, Henry V. It starts out with how the young prince ascended to the throne and culminates in one of the most strategic and underdog war victories of his reign. I am a little bit (a lot a bit) obsessed with Timothee Chalamet after watching this film. He was definitely a scene stealer and did an impeccable delivery as young King Henry V, full of moody speeches and dramatic eye contact. I would talk more about the film as a whole and the story, but to be honest, Timothee Chalamet’s performance pretty much captures the essence of the film for me. As biased as this sounds, if it were not him in the lead role, I don’t think I would have even watched it.
Some takeaways I have from watching the movie are that it is beautifully shot and has cinematically stunning elements that feels suited to be projected in a theater rather than streamed on Netflix. I thought that the final battle scene was really nicely shot; it captured chaos, war, and destruction without allowing the audience to become completely lost or overwhelmed. The story itself was pretty straightforward, and I like how it focuses on one pivotal, and historically defining event. However, I wouldn’t say that the story itself was particularly memorable, rather it was more the look and feel of the film. The story was straightforward and not particularly groundbreaking in terms of how it was told. I typically enjoy period films, but usually my cup of tea is something more light and romantic, like Downton Abbey. But I have to say, I was pretty enthralled in this film. As much as I loved the cinematography, I still think my enjoyment of this film stemmed mostly from Timmy’s portrayal of King Henry V.
I’m also a bit obsessed with Lily Rose Depp in her limited role as Henry’s bride-to-be. Her role wasn’t exactly big, but she definitely left a lasting impression. Her lines were delivered to utter perfection, and her French accent while delivering English lines was impeccable. She really nailed those nuanced inflections that can easily sound too forced or fake. I loved Robert Pattinson in his role as well, and the critics pretty much say that he nailed it in bringing some sense of humor and ridiculousness to an overall dark-themed movie.
In Conclusion…
The King is a great Netflix film if you like period pieces and if you like Timothee Chalamet. But if you’re just here for Timothee Chalamet and you don’t really like period/war films, maybe not for you. Luckily I am a fan of both, so I stan this movie.