6/22/08

The Other Boleyn Girl

So this is adapted from one of my all time favourite books by Philippa Gregory and I was very keen to buy the DVD. Then I read the very average reviews on Netflix and decided to rent it first, as I was expecting to be disappointed.

Well I wasn't and thoroughly enjoyed this movie from start to finish. The book was over 600 pages and there is no way the film could go into as much detail, but I thought they took all the main parts of the plot and made it work. Both the Boleyn girls were played by excellent young actresses in Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson, and Eric Bana was good as a brooding Henry VIII.

It tells the story from the point of view of Mary Boleyn, someone who was just a footnote in Tudor history but was very much a part of Henry's life. Anne Boleyn's story is a well documented part of English history and she influenced some major turning points in our history, as well as mothering Elizabeth 1st. The Tudor and Elizabethan periods have always been a pet love of mine and Philippa Gregory has done her research well and it is an accurate portrayal of the time.

This movie very much bought a much loved book to life for me, the Hubster enjoyed it but found it harder to follow not knowing the background history as I do. If you loved this book then I doubt you'll be disappointed, if you love these historical period pieces you'll enjoy it too.

6 comments:

Janet said...

Thanks for the recommendation. I also find the Tudor period a fascinating time in our history. I loved Helen Mirran's portrayal of Elizabeth I.

Rhea said...

I really enjoyed the book, so I have been wanting to see this movie for a while. I'm going to rent it soon...I'm so glad to hear you liked it! Makes me look forward to it even more.

Pam said...

this is definitely on my list-to-see for one day ....

The Diva said...

Loved, loved, loved the book. Will rent the movie from Netflix. Thanks for reminding me.~~Dee

Sherri said...

Sarah, I really liked this movie too! I never listen to reviews-I judge the movie/book for myself.

Victoria - Florence and Mary said...

Thanks for the review.... it's one on my "to watch" list!

Victoria xx