Review of A Man for All Seasons (1966) by Rob P — 18 Jun 2009

"'A Man for All Seasons' is a picture that inspires admiration, courage and thought." - New York Times.

This is a historic tale which centers around Sir Thomas More's conscientious plight not just against the king of England but with himself. Against an overwhelming tide More is bent on standing firm to his own convinctions despite the ramifications that come with opposing the wishes of the king... especially one as ruthless as Henry VIII.

The wryly principled "man for all seasons" is acted superbly by Paul Scofield as one who, although unwilling to compromise his valued morals, does share a mutual respect with the king (and we find King Henry does greatly admire and respect More, and is dismayed by his silence). Despite their affection for one another More is foremost a man unable by virtue to please the king at such a high expense as the wrongness of damning his own soul. This truly is an immaculate showcase of cinema shining through at its best, of the back-and-forths between such rich characters, no matter their relevance to the story... every character is important, drawn and fleshed out to More's dilemma and the central theme of having to keep one's person intact despite any temptations or opposition that would blemish it.

AMFAS is known for its articulate and awe-inspiring dialogue and well-acted performances, it's also a very well-directed film from Fred Zinneman (who'd also made "High Noon" and "From Here to Eternity"; those pictures have nothing on this!) and flawlessly edited to where all scenes flow seemlessly together without one "off" moment or scene that feels misplaced. And on top of all this: AMFAS is breathlessly stunning as a visual piece to just gawk over. Its Academy wins for best cinematography and best costume design were understandably well-earned.

This picture is one of a slim few that does profoundly affect me to where I'll still reflect back on it long after any viewing. More's struggles and the way he handles them, how this true story gives us centuries and maybe even millenia of modeled character in action, how Sir Thomas More had in fact given his life to stand on his principle, and the great Paul Scofield's long-reaching performance as More is what all stays with me. Even his final words to onetime friend Richard is everlasting, wait for it! As a viewer who grows with concern it's difficult to watch More, with such grace and decency - pure dignity - succumbing to eventual harsh treatment and deprived from his wife and daughter. He's too good. Which brings me back to why "A Man for All Seasons" remains distinctly with me: how far would we go to protect what we see as the essence of ourselves, of keeping our souls intact when dealing with overwhelming and life-threatening adversity?