Television Series Review: The Tudors

King Henry VIII had many wives, the story of The Tudors follows Henry’s reign, his loves and losses, his infatuation and distaste for his six wives, and his insatiable need for power.

The Tudors is a costume drama of the highest order, with excellent performances by the cast, particularly the leading actors. Jonathan Rhys Meyers does a fine job here not concerned about making Henry more sympathetic than he really is, it is a brave and challenging performance. Other standouts in the cast include Maria Doyle Kennedy, Jeremy Northam, James Frain, Henry Cavill, Natalie Dormer, Joely Richardson, Sam Neill, and the legendary Peter O’Toole whose very presence (beyond the great acting) elevates the scenes he is in.

Much of the series is filmed in Ireland. The writing is great, locations are luscious, and the costumes and sets brilliantly done. There is creative license with some of the history in the series and the costuming, which works wonderfully for Henry’s costumes, setting the mood for the king when he makes his appearance in court.

If you love good writing, costume dramas, and good acting, rent The Tudors series and get ready for a fascinating trip through history.

2007-2010. Created by Michael Hirst. Starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, James Frain, Anthony Brophy, Sarah Bolger, Natalie Dormer, Max Brown, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Joely Richardson, and Peter O’Toole.

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