Review of A Man for All Seasons (1966) by Mesha R — 13 Feb 2011

Based on the play, A Man for All Seasons takes place during one of England's most historical turning point where King Henry VIII tries to overthrow the rules of the Catholic Church, and the one man who stood in his way.

For those who are retarded about history, Henry VIII married Catherine of Aragon and later tried to weasel through the Church's system to devorce her to marry Anne Boleyn. Though frowned upon, no one would argue with the will of the King's, so all the leads of the Church of England obeyed King Henry's will. Except for one. Thomas More was the only man standing in the King's way from geting a devorce approval from the Pope. This is a very interesting true story about one man vs. society, what others deem right and wrong, whether orders should be obeyed, (especially if it's from the freaken king!) and staying true to one's beliefs.

Fred Zinnermann (High Noon, From Here to Eternity) was definitely not worried about making an appealing movie. The lack of diagetic music sets a very depressing mood though the whole movie, and there's not a lot to be attracted to. Although, the sets and costumes are stunningly detailed to historical portrayal. This movie also has some great thought into the cinematography, in which all other rooms in the movie are dark, but in Thomas More's house daylight is always present. There's no romanticised features in this movie, but by observing them closely, there is lots to be impressed with in this movie.

To be honest, this is a pretty dull movie. It's slow and characters are generally unappealing, facing subject matter only attractive as a history lesson. It's a movie about going against the King, so there isn't a lot of relevance for today's society. But then again I think the point of the movie is that it's not supposed to be relevant or appealing. The fact that no one likes what More is doing sets a very destinct character, and what he stands for isn't about his Christian beliefs but that the order of the King is no greater nor more right than a fool's belief. It's not the most entertaining movie, but its a full hearted lession teacher that great actors and great writing bring out.