The Lion in Winter - MGM (Video & DVD)

The Lion in Winter

This is one of the best movies made! As close to Shakespeare as you can get in modern times. The dialogue is incredible,especially in the interaction of Hepburn and O'Toole. They also seem to be having such a good time with it.The whole cast couldn't have been chosen more perfectly.The tension between the brothers as they back stab at the machinations of their parents is palatable.For lovers of historical drama this is a must. For lovers of great dialogue and charisma between actors this is a must. For lovers of great film making in general this is a must!

A stunning portrayal of greed and corruption, and the price we pay for power...

Katherine Hepburn is considered one of the greatest actresses to ever grace the big screen. In fact, many of her devoted fans have coined the nickname `Kate the Great' when referencing this cinematic icon. In this day and age of modern cinema being compared to this legend is one of the highest compliments any actress can hope to receive. Sadly, I have not seen many of Hepburn's films and so I am really in the dark as to the extent of her talent. But last night I sat down to watch `The Lion in Winter', a film I had heard much about but knew very little of. I am now convinced, from just this single performance, that all the praise and admiration is justly deserved (as was that Oscar win).

With quick wit and a masterfully dead-panned delivery, Katherine Hepburn scorches the screen as Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, the Achilles-Heel to her husband King Henry II. Eleanor and Henry do not have the happiest marriage, Henry keeping Eleanor locked away for the majority of the year because of her rebellion against him. He allows her to visit for the Christmas holiday and it is during this visit that tension abounds, tension that leads to betrayal and a total collapse of family. While Eleanor is visiting she rallies behind their eldest son Richard for his right to the throne, but Henry is determined to make his youngest son John the next King. Left in the middle is Geoffrey, perhaps the most cunning of all, who devises a way of secluding the throne for himself.

Adding to the internal tension within the family ranks is the pressure being put upon King Henry by King Philip of France to give his sister Alais' hand to Richard in marriage. King Philip is a young King, but a crafty one and soon he is finding ways to destroy King Henry's rule from within his own castle walls.

The acting, for the most part, is flawless. I've already mentioned my adoration of Katherine Hepburn's marvelous performance, but much must be said for Peter O'Toole as well. It's still so shocking to me that he has yet to win an acting Oscar. The Academy must feel really stupid right about now. His fiery delivery as King Henry is brilliant to witness. Anthony Hopkins, who makes his big screen debut here, is also a marvel to watch. It's apparent from this early performance that he would one day become one of our greatest working actors. His portrayal of the determined yet haunted Richard shows control and maturity beyond his experience. Timothy Dalton also delivers a fine debut performance as King Philip, infusing enough charisma to make his cunning all the more believable. Jane Merrow is sympathetic as Alais and John Castle is phenomenal as Geoffrey. I was astounded by the depth he brought to his character, making him the most fascinating character in my humble opinion. In fact, the acting in this film is so masterful that I am pained to have to single out Nigel Terry as the biggest drawback to an otherwise brilliant film. His portrayal of John is excruciating to watch. Instead of making John a believable buffoon he creates a campy feel that takes away from the impact of the film. Thankfully the rest of the cast is so brilliant that they make up for his lack of impression.

I will add as a side note that I find it ironic how, while watching this movie, I couldn't help but draw comparisons to the marvelous Glenn Close when watching Hepburn, noticing how their acting style, even their facial features are very similar. I say this is ironic because come to find out, Close also took on the role of Queen Eleanor in the TV adaptation of `The Lion in Winter'.

Small world.

Much has been said of the Oscar winning script by James Goldman (adapted from his stage play) and much should be said. The dialog is tight and witty and, while the film is a tad wordy, it flows beautifully, remaining fresh and natural throughout. Anthony Harvey directs the film with conviction and dedication, and it shows. From the opening credits to the final frame he beautifully captures the mood presented by the subject.

`The Lion in Winter' is a stunning portrayal of the power of greed and the danger of power. Watching this dysfunctional family crumble at its very foundation is unsettling yet captivating. The film does to a degree feel dated; you can't escape that. The sets and costumes and whatnot are not as fresh and vibrant as one would witness in modern cinema (the recent `The Other Boleyn Girl' is a marvelous example of how orgasmic these modern period films can look) but what doesn't feel dated is the marvelous performances and the smartly written and intricately woven script.

`The Lion in Winter' is a brilliant testament to the fact that no matter when a film was made, if it was made right it will stand the test of time.

Deeply moving.

The Lion in Winter is a breath of fresh air. I just happened to come across this classic film on t.v. one night and boy this movie is a masterpiece. Katharine Hepburn and Peter O'Toole are flawless! Their acting abilities are top-notch, no wonder critics swoon over both these talented thespians. I highly recommend this medieval treasure, enjoy!

The Lion In Winter

It's wonderful to watch great actors and a great movie. The Lion in Winter is definite addition to my video library; one to watch over and over.

LION IN WINTER-Great Cast, Story, a Magical FIlm Experience

I never saw this great 5 star film when it first came out in 1968. In fact, I didn't even know of its existence until late in 1977 when a friend who is a professional film editor and collector brought a 16 mm print to my home in Connecticut and gave me a private screening.

We saw this film in the late evening and the magic of that night and the performances of the great cast were something to be remembered. The cast included the one and only Peter O'Toole, the great Katharine Hepburn, as well as Sir Anthony Hopkins, and Timothy Dalton. The musical score was also very beautiful as were the elaborate sets and costumes which all helped to transport me back in time and establish the wonderful period mood.