Looking for Richard: Review of The Lost King
Buckle up – this review of The Lost King is going to be one bumpy ride.
If you’ve been under a hedge and not heard about the finding of Richard III’s body in 2012, then here’s the potted version and the plot of The Lost King: much maligned dead king infamous for hump and murdering opponents (including two nephews and brother in Tower of London), best remembered for Shakespeare’s eponymous play, and 500 years later exhumed from a Leicester car park. Discovery made the news around the world.
The movie recounts Philippa Langley’s (Sally Hawkins sparkles) journey from Richard III playgoer to obsessive researcher determined to find R’s burial place and to restore his reputation and his rightful place as king in British history. She is thwarted by the baddies of the film, nope not Richard this time, but Leicester University.
So, here’s the controversy. Various media published stories about litigation over representations of the university and some staff; the online reports are vague about what they’re actually going to sue for, presumably defamation. And there’s no doubt the university isn’t covered in glory in the film. Lee Ingleby is the scoffing uni rep Richard Taylor and his performance is excellently oleaginous and patronising—yep, boo, hiss. While Mark Addy as Richard Buckley is equal parts self-serving and sympathetic—boo, cheers.
But it is a movie remember, entertainment?
The Lost King is perhaps more niche than is immediately apparent; yes, it will appeal (and it is one heck of an appealing movie) to people who enjoy a good story with strong acting. No one does the underdog genre as well as the Brits (Full Monty, Brassed Off, Bend It Like Beckham). Second, it is a must see for all Ricardians and there are plenty out there. Third, any academic who likes to witness the machinations of contemporary universities exposed will guffaw and nod knowingly.
The Lost King starts slowly so be patient. It has a couple of wobbles (Langley’s interactions with an imaginary Richard III), and the relationship between Langley and hubby (Steve Coogan). But it also has some great cinematic moments: the juxtaposition of formal celebrations and Langley’s engagement with school children, and the re-internment of Richard III.
The story is fascinating; it’s well written (Coogan) and directed (Stephen Frears). Perfect for holiday viewing and nothing to offend. Yep, I’m hooked, already got myself a couple of books for Xmas reading.
The Lost King
From 23 December
108 minutes
Rating M
