Get ready to see a different side of King Henry VIII in the new movie, Firebrand, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. While most movies about the infamous monarch focus on his failed marriages, Firebrand shines a light on his sixth and final wife, Katherine Parr. Not only did she outlast Henry, but she was also a feminist ahead of her time. She was the first English woman to have a book published and a radical Protestant in a staunchly Catholic England. The movie, directed by Brazilian-Algerian filmmaker Karim Aïnouz and starring Oscar-winner Alicia Vikander, finally gives Parr the recognition she deserves.
But don’t worry, Firebrand isn’t just a history lesson. It’s also entertaining and enlightening, with a rollicking performance from Jude Law as Henry VIII. The movie delves into palace intrigue and conspiracy theories as Henry’s health declines and Katherine struggles to navigate her role as Regent.
Overall, Firebrand is consistently engrossing and a fine showcase for Vikander’s talents. Law steals every scene he’s in, cementing his status as a consummate character actor. The supporting cast, including Simon Russell Beale, Eddie Marsan, Sam Riley, and Erin Doherty, are also excellent. With stunning costumes, production design, and score, Firebrand is a must-see movie.
