Review of W.E. (2011) by Roxanne R — 06 May 2012
Two stories interlaced here: The illicit romance between King Edward VIII (James D'Arcy) and Wallis Simpson (Andrea Riseborough) during the 1930's, then film shifts to 1998 in NYC with the marriage of Wally Winthrop (Abbie Cornish) and a prominent doctor named William Winthrop (Richard Coyle).
Madonna shines as a director here! So eloquently and vividly tells both stories, with attention to detail, costumes, cinematography, etc. The acting was superb as well especially by Riseborough and D'Arcy.
I assume that a good director double checks the facts of the story and based on this film, my final analysis is that Wallis Simpson was not a good woman. Initially I felt sorry for her because her first husband (naval officer) was horrible with her.
Her second husband on the other hand was a jewel (Ernest Simpson played by David Harbour). He truly loved her but that was not enough. She became focused on King Edward the eligible bachelor. She attended every party, carefully working her way through to the King's heart.
The affair that shocked the nation took place while she was still married! No wonder the monarchy was against it. Ernest Simpson did not deserve that but what man says no to the King? King Edward after much consideration chose to abdicate the throne (I thought he was a more personable and human king than his brother "Bertie" who was depicted in the King's Speech).
At last I can put this baby to rest now that I know the story and the facts per the film. It is true that Wallis Simpson also gave up her privacy, and her normal life to marry royalty but Simpson's Phyrric Victory caused the heartache of many.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED and again thanks to Madonna for bringing this incredible story to the big screen!
This review of W.E. (2011) was written by Roxanne R on 06 May 2012.
W.E. has generally received mixed reviews.
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