Oh, I don't know. I thought it was refreshing to challenge the consensus of historical opinion, and I loved the final scene where Cromwell and Henry embrace - the look on Cromwell's face suggested the realisation that he had sold his soul to the devil.I did stick with it to the bitter end, although I'll admit to dozing off at least a couple of times each week. It was such a beautiful production it was hypnotic, but I agree with those who say Mark Rylance made Cromwell a bit too sympathetic.
Yes I do accept all that. What I meant was that, because I didn't have much knowledge of or interest in the period, Cromwell as the powerful political player in the court that he seems to have been didn't really come across to me. Crafty, a bit of a toady, yes, so that last shot was eloquent as you say. Rylance was so (over?)controlled that when he did let his menace show a bit (threatening the poor lute player, was it?) it was startling. I think a person needs the background knowledge to appreciate the challenge to consensus bit.
BTW If you've got a few minutes to spare, treat yourself to Rylance among others in this curtain call at The Globe, posted on another board. It's a joy!
Only the highest of brows for our leading Shakespeareans...Or as the voice of Flop in the childrens cartoon Bing! Bunny.
She is a very subtle and talented actor.Claire Foy in the final scenes. Flipping heck.
She is a very subtle and talented actor.