This film tells the story of King Henry IV of France (reigned 1589-1610), who, as a quick trip to Wikipedia will tell you, was notable for his religious tolerance and general kindliness. Director Jo Baier’s biopic follows his life as he progresses from warrior to revered monarch.
The film’s a historical epic; full of beautiful people, expensive-looking photography and lavishly realised sets. Unfortunately, it is also quite boring. The filmmakers were clearly aiming to make a grand, epic Gladiator-style romp – it even features music from Hans Zimmer – and they do just about pull it off, but arguably it’s all been done before, and more compellingly. Special mention has to go to a sex scene that manages to evoke the notoriously awful cave orgy sequence in The Matrix Reloaded. Not particularly worth the two and a half hour commitment, unless you’re really into Kingdom of Heaven.
Overall Verdict: A visually impressive film, but a pretty bland one too.
Special Features:
Making of Feature
Trailer
Reviewer: Tom René