The King is directed by David Michôd and stars Timothée Chalamet.
History/Drama. Released 2019.
The King is the story of Hal, who eventually became crowned as King Henry V after his father dies. As a young king, he must learn to navigate politics and deal with the brewing war his Father left behind.
I was looking forward to seeing this film solely because of Timothée Chalamet - obviously... he is the best young actor working today. I enjoy historical dramas and was excited to see him in this setting. He has never gone this far back in time before and it was exciting to see him depart from the genre he has become known for, and hopefully a very different type of role. I have not seen any of David Michôd's directorial work, but The Rover has been on my agenda for quite some time due to very positive word-of-mouth. I respect Joel Edgerton as both a writer and actor, thanks to The Gift and his scene-stealing role as Tom Buchanan in The Great Gatsby; perhaps the best performance in that film. So, all the talent involved seems to be pointing in the right direction.
I am mixed on The King. There is nothing glaringly bad about the film, and there are a lot of redeemable qualities. However, the film as a whole is rather cold and if it wasn't for Chalamet, I probably would forget this film entirely in the space of a couple of weeks. However, David Michôd has certainly caught my eye as a director. Some of the shots are really breathtaking and it seems that there's a lack of additional visual effects which makes it all the more impressive. The shots are really clean and there's a lack of handheld cam, giving it an epic feel which fits the tone. The cinematography is really strong, but the very smooth visuals also make the film feel cold, which I think is its downfall.
Sadly, I don't think this is one of Timothée Chalamet's strongest performances at all. In his portfolio, this demonstrates versatility, because he is in no way bad. He is perfectly cast. However, in the film itself, there isn't much range. His character is the main reason why this film feels cold. He is rather distant and hostile, and it's hard to root for him as a protagonist, which I think is more of a problem with the script. However, the obligatory motivational speech just before they go into battle is quite powerful and reminds us of Chalamet's talent. Hal almost seems consumed by rage and determination and it is quite riveting to behold. I am just so excited about Dune and The French Dispatch. I really think that 2020 could be his year. Joel Edgerton is, yet again, scene-stealing, playing a bit of an archetype but nailing it regardless. Robert Pattinson is terrific as he always is, but isn't as present as you would expect. However, Lily Rose-Depp, who is marketed so heavily in the advertising, only appears in the last 30 minutes, which is quite shocking and actually something that is a flaw in the story.
The structure of the story didn't feel cohesive, and what I am referring to specifically is that final 30 minutes. Just as the story feels it is reaching a natural close, a new element is introduced and explored to little effect. It just feels slightly odd and pointless, because there isn't much emotional development with Hal as a character anyway.
Overall, a fairly underwhelming and cold historical drama, but with solid performances and stunning natural visuals.
C+
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