Monday, February 16, 2009

Edward and Mrs. Simpson

BBC, Masterpiece Theatre Production
Rated 5 Star
From Library

This is one of those beautifully done films that the BBC does seemingly without breaking a sweat. Wonderfully cast, beautifully filmed it made for a delightful afternoon of viewing.

When dealing with real historical characters and events it's hard for any screen play to get precisely into the minds of the characters but I think that overall this film probably got darn close.

The Prince of Wales came across as a shallow but charming fellow who just didn't have it in him to buckle down and be a King. Too much work. He whined a lot about having to interrupt his pleasure to take care of what little business came his way. She came across as an ambitious but very naive woman who really though she could pull off being Queen of England some day. I think they are one of the best examples of the old saying "be careful what you wish for" I have ever run across because they got their wish and then had to live with the consequences for the rest of their lives. And England ended up with a much, much better King.

Amazon Review: On the evening of December 11, 1936, England's King Edward VIII formally broadcast his farewell to a nation. Torn between duty and love, he had decided to follow his heart. Follows the true story and the unforgettable romance that developed between the Prince of Wales and an extraordinary American woman named Wallis Simpson. That she was already married and rumored to have had other affairs, ruffled more than a few feathers. The scandal only heats up as the Prince becomes King and declares his intention to marry his mistress, who has since become divorced and available.