Forget those stodgy portraits of England's portly King Henry VIII hanging in museums. This Showtime series introduces viewers to a young, hunky and lustful Henry. Jonathan Rhys Meyers is all dash and panache as the star of the historical soap opera, which bursts at the seams with sex, political intrigue, sex, dangerous court liaisons and sex. In the inaugural season, Henry craves a male heir that Queen Katherine of Aragon (Maria Doyle Kennedy) has been unable to deliver (but his mistress Elizabeth has given birth to an illegitimate son). With his interest in Katherine waning, Henry turns his attentions toward a stunning young beauty named Anne Boleyn (Natalie Dormer) and makes overtures to her to become his new mistress. Putting aside affairs of the heart to tend to affairs of state and religion, Henry welcomes his wife's nephew Charles V of Spain to court and dutifully tries to hide his lack of affection for his wife. After denouncing Martin Luther and his upstart theology, Pope Clement christens Henry a defender of the faith. With pressure from Anne to get a divorce, Henry sends the devious and opportunistic Cardinal Wolsey (Sam Neill) to Rome to petition His Excellency. Amid all the political, personal and religious goings-on, the stage is set for a monumental showdown between Henry, Rome, Spain and France, and all those involved do their best to keep their heads.
Customer Rating
5
Loved watching it during the season!!!!
on December 9, 2008
Posted by: Ravendays
from San Antonio
I love this series. I have read numerous books about Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Its great to see it in a drama that pretty much follows what actually happens. I dont think they could have picked a better cast. Johnathan Rhys Myers as King Henry is such a awesome pick, not only is he sexy (as Henry was reputed to be when he was younger) but he also becomes the King of England, he makes you feel as if you are there and your heart goes out to Katherine. There is not a single scene that is not played to profection.
I cant wait to buy the next seasons set and am waiting for season 3 to air! Dont miss this show.
What's great about it: Everything
What's not so great: Having to wait for the next seasons release!