Olive Films bring the 1994 adaptation of Alan Bennett’s play to Blu-ray
It’s not an exaggeration to say there is something of a fascination with all things British amongst the Americans. Literature, drinking tea, music, Keeping Up Appearances, stiff upper lips, and sarcasm — these facets of British culture are appreciated by many, but much of the interest is certainly derived from our common history, two peoples once one, split by our cousins embracing independence. The ramifications of this were great, resonating still today. Mention George III, and the typical response is that he was the “mad King who lost America.” The truth is more complex than that, and while The Madness of King George is certainly questionable in its historical accuracy, it’s still a fine piece of filmmaking, and undeniably a showcase for an actor at the top of his game.
Synopsis:
Based on the true story of the deteriorating mental health of Britain’s King George III, The Madness of King George is historical drama at its entertaining best. With a cast of British acting royalty led by Nigel Hawthorne (Amistad) as the “Mad King”, George III, the film features Helen Mirren (The Queen) as Queen Charlotte, the King’s wife and staunchest supporter; Rupert Everett (My Best Friend’s Wedding) as George, eldest son and the Prince of Wales; Ian Holm (Time Bandits) as the caring Dr. Willis whose radical treatment of mental disorders is viewed with skepticism by the royals; Rupert Graves (TV’s Sherlock) as Captain Greville, the King’s equerry; and Amanda Donohoe (The Lair of the White Worm) as Lady Pembroke, attendant to the Queen.
Based on the original play by Alan Bennett, the film was an indie hit in 1994, nominated for four Academy awards in total — Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Actor (Hawthorne), Best Supporting Actress (Mirren), and winning for Best Art Direction. The Madness of King George (III, in UK marketing and historical accuracy) certainly has all the ingredients for a juicy historical drama. There’s the sad decline of a once great king, and indeed nation; the relationship between a husband and wife; political intrigue as the government seeks to intervene; and the cherry on top, a son looking to depose his father and elevate himself to the throne. Some of the details here are stretched rather a lot to make for better entertainment, but there are sufficient nuggets of truth in most of it to allow you to not overly scrutinize the work.
Set in 1788, several years after the American colonies have shaken off colonial rule, King George is a man who embodies the disintegration of the once great British Empire. Plagued by the loss of the overseas territories, his behavior is unstable. His memory falters, his temper flares readily, and his decorum is often lacking, resulting in a court and country embarrassed by his behavior. Political adversaries collude with the king’s son, the Prince of Wales (Rupert Everett), to take steps to dethrone the monarch. At the same time, loyalists try to buy him time while recuperating so he can return to power. It’s this period of treatment that takes up the bulk of the film, with the political maneuverings serving as a backdrop to give developments impetus. Obsequious medical hacks of the time, obsessed with stool coloration and failing to cure the king of his maladies, give way to Willis (Ian Holm), a man who approaches the king’s condition as less of a medical ailment, but rather a question of mental health.
The clash of these two is the core of the film, a power play between them with Willis looking to break down the king’s regard and self-importance before he can rebuild the man he once was. It lays down interesting beginnings for what will become modern psychiatry, albeit in a crude and often brutal fashion. Hawthorne attacks the role, but it’s a performance infused with a lot of nuance. His transformation throughout the film is transfixing, from eccentric dominant monarch to a exposed, frightened man. These poignant sequences show vulnerability, amplified by his relationship with Queen Charlotte, another regal performance by Helen Mirren. The supporting cast is replete with British acting talent, the standout being Ian Holm. He’s a superb, stern foil against this King, who is losing his grip on his throne, as well as his mind.
The Package
The release presents an image transfer of good quality. Detail is good, grain is natural, no noticeable artifacts are evident. The presentation has great color, showing a richness from the lush greenery of the English countryside, and the occasional red pop of a soldier’s uniform. Overall, the excellent production values of the film are represented well. Sadly, no special features are included in this release.
The Bottom Line
Despite lacking in terms of extras, this Olive Films release is a welcome one. The Madness of King George is charming, tragic, insightful, and rousing in equal measure. A showcase for the brilliant work of Nigel Hawthorne, as well as a host of other British talents, it’s a very stately affair.
The Madness of King George is available via Olive Films from October 31st
