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A Man For All Seasons [1966]


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Grandeur fit for a king...and a sainted chancellor
Review date: 2007-08-03 Rating: 10 out of 10

Firstly, I agree with the view that this portrayal of Thomas More is (I expect) wildy idealised. Bolt was obviously in awe of this man, and essentially, on the matter of his political intransigence in this one very major matter, (made into a famous martyrdom by those masters of P.R. the Catholic Church), who can blame him for admiring such integrity and courage? He has written his part beautifully: Here is a man that the viewer knows after five minutes, will not be leaving his principles for one second, even if it is the most powerful king in England's history he is at risk of upsetting. The religion versus secular rule problem is put across with great clarity, and it actually IS a very good history lesson of the facts as they happened (idealised view of More or not). Dialogue is very finely written by a real writer-no Hollywoodese here-this is fine stuff. Well casted and acted. Scholfield is a sensation, and Charlton Heston must have had very mixed emotions when watching this film-He went out of his way to persuade directors to give him the part, but to no avail. The British casting director obviously knew of Scholfield's ability and stuck with his own judgment, in Thomas More style.

Production values are very strong, does not look like a small budget to me, the period details in every respect are beautifully portrayed with real English pride. The pomp and ceremony when Henry's around is almost satirical, as Bolt aims to show up this man's immense vainglory. The scene on his barge embarking at More's Chelsea home shows how everyone apart from More is petrified of his mighty and irascible nature. The film is a treat for the senses, as you are privvy to such splendid sights and sounds. The camera work is exemplary and knows exactly how to make it all look very regal indeed. The opening holding shots of the griffin gargoyles for instance, perfectly set the very grand tone of this fine film. Deserved its Oscars for creating a very good looking film from a successful playscript.

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Reviews


just buy it
Review date: 2007-06-29 Rating: 10 out of 10

This is one of my favourite films. As close to perfect as possible. Sir Thomas More is basically everybody but whereas we struggle with issues like shall i have peas or beans, he has to wrestle with his king, his country, his family, his beliefs, his philosphy, his eternal life of heaven or hell...

Gritty, Gripping, Flawless!
Review date: 2006-09-30 Rating: 10 out of 10

Despite other customer reviews that have questioned the historical credibility of film, agnostic script-writer Robert Bolt produces an accurate depiction of Thomas More according to original transcripts. Okay, so the whole catalogue of More's life hasn't been included within this film (including the torture of heretics), but realistically that would be impossible.

Although it is true that More did torture heretics that by today standards may seem somewhat barbaric, you must keep in mind the societal/political period in which More lived - this was the English renaissance 15th century, and laws and social mandate were remarkably different to the modern day society we all know. Needless to say this does not justify such an act of cruelty. However, law is a key theme of this film. And it is most likely that More's interrogation and torturing answered to hard-line politics intolerant of heretical viewpoints. More did not create legislation, but was renowned for his obedience to the law (which if not for Richard Rich perjury would have saved his neck!) and foremost his impartiality as a statesman.

A Man for All Seasons is a film carried by fantastic script-writing, impeccable acting from all members of the cast, and authentic cinematography that really generates the atmosphere of the period. Unlike many modern hollywood movies that largely incorporate special effects, this is quite simply a film of substance over style. For those who may be slightly dubious as regards to the religious context, do not be dissuaded, for this is a film for people of all beliefs, especially those interested in the virtues of integrity, conviction, and courage in the face of adversity.

A personal, unlearned, opinion
Review date: 2005-12-09 Rating: 10 out of 10

I have read some of the more "learned" opinions of this film, and have to bow to the greater knowledge of those who have studied the characters portrayed, and their true histories. I have seen another version of this story - actors etc. now forgotten - but this time the underlying politics, personal stand-points and emotions were much more evident to me. One has to listen to every word and consider every phrase to gain the maximum from the dialogue, and thus from the story. Watch it two or three times, you might just understand the arguments if you do!
I cannot judge the accuracy, others seem to have done so - but there seems, to me, to be a window into Tudor politics in this film, and a feeling that politics may not have changed much since...

Lavish and spectacular - but not history!
Review date: 2005-12-06 Rating: 8 out of 10

I've given the film 4 stars because it's a tour de force of visual imagery and breathtaking performances. Bolt has transferred the play to the cinema brilliantly, evoking all the spectacle and danger of life in the Tudor court. However, although it's not the film's fault (it's the original play that's innacurate) Thomas More was no saint but an opinionated bigot and torturer of 'heretics'- an ambitious man who somehow managed to reconcile his own personal rise to power with his fundamentalist Christian opinions. Read Peter Aykroyd's biography for an accurate portrayal! However, the film is a jolly good yarn and gripping from beginning to end. Just don't use it as the basis for your history exam!

Product Details/Specifications


Actor(s):
Leo McKern
Paul Scofield
Robert Shaw
Orson Welles
Wendy Hiller

Creators:
Paul Scofield (Primary Contributor)
Wendy Hiller (Primary Contributor)

Director(s):

Recording label: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
EAN: 5035822001336
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 1
Format: Anamorphic, Dubbed, PAL, Widescreen,
Release date: 2001-11-26
Number of discs: 1
Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
Audience rating: Universal, suitable for all
Region code: 2
Running time: 116 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1967-05-03
Language: English (Original Language)
Language: French (Original Language)
Language: Latin (Original Language)
Language: Spanish (Original Language)

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