For a history buff like me being invited to the film The Lost King was a real treat. This new British movie is based on a true story. It tells the tale of one woman’s quest to find the final resting place of King Richard III. Richard was the last English king to be killed in battle in 1485. It wasn’t until 2012, over 500 years on, that his remains were discovered beneath a car park in Leicester. This film shares that unique story.
The search for Richard’s remains was orchestrated by amateur historian Philippa Langley, whose unrelenting search had been met by incomprehension from her family, friends and colleagues and with scepticism from experts and academics. The Lost King is the life affirming true story of a woman who refused to be ignored and who took on the country’s most eminent historians, forcing them to think again about one of the most controversial kings in England’s history.
Directed by Steven Frears and written by Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope, this film is uplifting and engaging and the whole audience were emotional by the end. It had a Hitchcock feel to the music which kept the story humming along. Elements of fantasy and magic provided insights and some comic relief.
The Cast
The exceptional Sally Hawkins (Maudie) was a brilliant choice to play Philippa Langley, divorcee and ME sufferer, who was part of the Richard III Society. With passion, dedication and no small amount of intuition this amateur detective discovered pieces of the puzzle that even the experts had discounted.
Sally’s portrayal is sympathetic and breathes life into this vulnerable character who must “ find her voice “ to enable her to be taken seriously. You literally see a shy and brow beaten woman come into her own as she begins to light up with the conviction of her theory. It truly is HER story.
Steve Coogan ( Philomena) plays her supportive ex husband with droll wit and a measured performance. He has the best line in the film when he gets to say to their two young sons, “ Boys… Mum’s found Richard III.”
The handsome Harry Lloyd plays King Richard, both as a Shakespearean actor and as the apparition which seemingly haunts Philippa’s days urging her on.
Mark Addy’s portrayal of Dr Richard Buckley, who ultimately helps Philippa in her quest is affable, although he still tries to overshadow her ideas and belittle her convictions in parts. HE is ‘ the expert’.
This story made news around the world and I will never forget the cavalcade driving King Richard’s body to his final proper resting place. As a woman I cheered on the inside at this uplifting story and am keen to research and find out more as I’m sure many others will be. This comedy drama is not a fast paced action film but it is a charming, historical tale told with warmth which is just perfect for its Boxing Day release date.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
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