The Overlooked Crown: Why 'The King' Deserves a Royal Reappraisal
There’s something oddly satisfying about stumbling upon a film that feels like a hidden gem, especially when it’s as richly crafted as The King. Personally, I think this 2019 Netflix release is one of those rare works that demands a second look—not just because it’s a Shakespearean adaptation, but because it challenges our expectations of what a historical drama can be. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it manages to fly under the radar despite its stellar cast and ambitious storytelling.
A Shakespearean Epic for the Modern Age
From my perspective, The King is a masterclass in blending classical literature with contemporary filmmaking. Directed by David Michôd, the film draws from Shakespeare’s Henriad to explore the rise of King Henry V. What many people don’t realize is that this isn’t just a period piece—it’s a meditation on power, legacy, and the chaos of leadership. Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Henry is nothing short of remarkable, especially considering he was just 23 at the time. His performance isn’t just about delivering Shakespearean dialogue; it’s about embodying the weight of a crown thrust upon a young man’s shoulders.
One thing that immediately stands out is how the film avoids the trappings of traditional historical dramas. It’s gritty, it’s raw, and it doesn’t shy away from the brutality of medieval warfare. Chalamet’s approach to the combat scenes—focusing on survival rather than heroism—adds a layer of authenticity that’s often missing in such films. If you take a step back and think about it, this choice reflects a broader shift in how we depict history on screen: less romanticized, more human.
A Cast Fit for a King
What this really suggests is that The King is more than just a vehicle for Chalamet’s talent. The ensemble cast, including Robert Pattinson as the Dauphin and Lily-Rose Depp as Princess Catherine, elevates the material in ways that are both subtle and striking. Pattinson, in particular, delivers a performance that’s as unsettling as it is captivating. His Dauphin isn’t just a villain—he’s a mirror to Henry’s own insecurities and ambitions.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how the film uses its supporting characters to explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of ambition. It’s not just about Henry’s journey; it’s about the people who shape—and are shaped by—his rise to power. This raises a deeper question: What does it mean to rule, and who pays the price for a king’s decisions?
The Underdog That Deserves More Love
Here’s where things get intriguing: Despite its critical acclaim and strong performances, The King has remained somewhat overlooked. It’s a film that splits opinion, with some praising its bold reinterpretation of Shakespeare and others critiquing its historical inaccuracies. But, in my opinion, that’s part of its charm. It’s not a documentary—it’s an adaptation, and it takes creative liberties to serve its narrative.
What many people don’t realize is that the film’s direct-to-Netflix release might have contributed to its lack of mainstream recognition. Theatrical releases often come with more buzz, more awards season chatter. The King missed out on major nominations, which feels like a missed opportunity. If you ask me, Chalamet’s performance alone deserved more than just viewer praise—it deserved a spot in the awards conversation.
Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
If you take a step back and think about it, The King feels eerily relevant in today’s political climate. Its exploration of leadership, morality, and the human cost of power resonates in ways that are both timeless and timely. Henry’s struggle to balance his personal desires with his responsibilities as a ruler is a story we’re still telling—just with different names and faces.
From my perspective, the film’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to make us reflect. It’s not just a story about a king; it’s a story about what it means to lead, to sacrifice, and to confront the consequences of one’s actions. That’s why, even years after its release, The King continues to captivate audiences who stumble upon it on Netflix.
Final Thoughts: A Crown Worth Claiming
Personally, I think The King is one of those films that gets better with each viewing. It’s not perfect—no film is—but its imperfections feel intentional, part of its gritty, unflinching portrayal of power and war. What makes it particularly fascinating is how it manages to be both a tribute to Shakespeare and a bold departure from his works.
If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: The King deserves more than just a passing glance. It’s a film that rewards patience, reflection, and a willingness to engage with its complexities. So, if you haven’t already, give it a chance. You might just find yourself, like me, wondering why it took so long to discover this underrated gem.
