The King (2018)

The King Poster

A cultural portrait of the American dream at a critical time in the nation’s history. Set against the 2016 American election, The King takes a musical road trip across the country in Elvis Presley's 1963 Rolls Royce.

Introduction
"The King" is a compelling 2018 significant film, directed by David Michôd and written collaboratively by Michôd and Joel Edgerton. Set in the 15th century, the plot adapts parts of Shakespeare's "Henriad" plays, especially "Henry IV, Part 1", "Henry IV, Part 2", and "Henry V". The movie orbits the transformation of a wayward prince into a hardened king in a politically rough England.

Plot Overview
The narrative centers on Hal (Timothee Chalamet), a young prince separated from royal life, who chooses a carefree existence among citizens, far from his despotic daddy, King Henry IV (Ben Mendelsohn). After the death of his daddy and his younger sibling's incapability to rule, Hal begrudgingly rises to the throne as King Henry V. Haunted by his father's tradition, and with guidance from his closest ally and mentor John Falstaff (Joel Edgerton), a weathered knight, the young king navigates palace politics, chaos, war, and psychological strings of his past.

Main Characters
Playing the function of Hal, Timothee Chalamet offers an exceptional portrayal of a young, hesitant prince that transitions into an iron-willed king. His charisma and strength breathe life into his character's advancement throughout the film. On the other hand, Joel Edgerton as Falstaff brings an amazing depth to his character, depicting a mentor-friend figure for Hal who grapples with his past errors and vices. Robert Pattinson also mesmerizes audiences with his striking performance as the Dauphin of France, showing formidable resistance to Hal's reign.

Setting and Style
Director David Michôd effectively crafts a rich historic backdrop, immersed in the gritty truth of the era. The middle ages atmosphere of the movie is understood through its impressive production design, authentic costumes, and bleak cinematography. The film's mournful and dark tones mirror the atmosphere of political intrigue, warfare, and inner battles experienced by the characters.

Dispute and Resolution
"The King" is mainly a story of dispute-- both internal and external. Hal's internal conflict lies in his struggle to break devoid of his dad's shadow and establish his governance. Externally, his reign is challenged by palace politics and impending war with France. In an epic showdown, King Henry V leads his massively surpassed army versus the French in the Battle of Agincourt. Despite significant misfortunes, and through strategic luster, Hal pulls off a surprising triumph, solidifying his place as a formidable leader.

Conclusion
"The King" is an incredible take on Shakespeare's works, combining historical drama with political intrigue and individual advancement. Its strong performances, significantly from Timothee Chalamet, Joel Edgerton, and Robert Pattinson, combined with Michôd's climatic realization of royal power has a hard time, make for an appealing watch. The story, while showcasing the political machinations of the 15th century, handles to weave an extraordinary character change of a young prince into a hardened king. The last touch of "The King" lives in its ability to resonate with audiences, unearthing the foundations of power, betrayal, and leadership in the game of thrones.

Top Cast

  • Alec Baldwin (small)
    Alec Baldwin
    Himself
  • Tony Brown
    Himself
  • James Carville (small)
    James Carville
    Himself
  • Chuck D (small)
    Chuck D
    Himself
  • Maggie Clifford (small)
    Maggie Clifford
    Herself
  • Radney Foster
    Himself
  • Patricia Gaines
    Herself
  • Mary Gauthier (small)
    Mary Gauthier
    Herself
  • Emmylou Harris (small)
    Emmylou Harris
    Herself
  • Ethan Hawke (small)
    Ethan Hawke
    Himself
  • John Hiatt (small)
    John Hiatt
    Himself