On A List of Movie Reviews
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Anne of the Thousand Days (1969)
Rate:
10
Viewed:
3/17
3/17:
If I'm disappointed with the satirical tone of
The Private Life of Henry VIII, Anne of the Thousand Days more
than makes up for it.
Comparing and contrasting Richard Burton's and Charles Laughton's renditions of King Henry VIII is like orange and apple;
they're completely different due to the tone of the films. Nevertheless, there's no substitute for Charles Laughton because
of his perfect look. That's not to put down Richard Burton because he did a great job and was therefore Oscar-nominated.
I suppose the following can be placed in this order when it comes to the life of King Henry VIII of England:
Anne of the Thousand Days, A Man for All Seasons, and
The Private Life of Henry VIII. The third Oscar
nomination for playing the same character in the second film went to Robert Shaw.
I've never been a fan of Geneviève Bujold who's a terrible, ugly actress. But I have to say she's fantastic as Anne
Bolelyn although I think Olivia Hussey would've been a perfect choice. Hence, it remains the only Oscar nomination of her
career. Strangely, Elizabeth Taylor was on the set to keep a watchful eye on her husband when he was around Geneviève Bujold. If
you want to compare their physical beauty, there's no contest.
Anthony Quayle, who's normally an okay actor, secures the only Oscar nomination of his career by turning in the best
performance as Cardinal Wolsey. It's been deserving. A special mention must go to John Colicos and Irene Papas for
playing Thomas Cromwell and Queen Catherine of Aragon, respectively. They help to elevate the film as well.
If I have to pick one with the best-looking costumes, it's Anne of the Thousand Days by far. Hence, it's not a surprise
the film received the only Oscar win, out of ten nominations, for Best Costume Design which went to Margaret Furse.
The cinematography is a bonus as well.
All in all, Anne of the Thousand Days is a resplendent picture that's first-rate royalty entertainment.