Regal Cinema: 10 Films About Kings and Queens

Description: This film tells the story of Sir Thomas More, who stands against King Henry VIII's divorce from Catherine of Aragon, leading to his eventual execution. It's a study in integrity and moral conviction.

Fact: The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and Paul Scofield won Best Actor for his portrayal of More.

Description: Set during Christmas 1183, this film focuses on the family dynamics of King Henry II of England, his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine, and their sons, all vying for power and inheritance.

Fact: The film was adapted from a successful Broadway play, and Katharine Hepburn won her third Best Actress Oscar for her role as Eleanor.

Description: A comedic yet poignant look at King George III's descent into madness and the political machinations that ensue. It's a blend of humor and tragedy, exploring the human side of royalty.

Fact: The film was adapted from the play "The Madness of George III," and Nigel Hawthorne's performance earned him a BAFTA nomination.

Description: A dramatic portrayal of the early reign of Queen Elizabeth I, showing her transformation from a young, vulnerable woman to a formidable ruler. It captures the political and religious turmoil of her time.

Fact: Cate Blanchett's performance as Elizabeth I was so compelling that she reprised the role in the sequel, "Elizabeth: The Golden Age."

Description: Sofia Coppola's visually stunning film follows the life of the infamous French queen, from her arrival in France as a young bride to her tragic end during the French Revolution.

Fact: The film uses an anachronistic soundtrack featuring modern bands like The Strokes, blending historical drama with contemporary music.

Description: This film explores the aftermath of Princess Diana's death and how Queen Elizabeth II navigates the public's grief and her own personal feelings. It's a poignant look at duty, tradition, and the modern monarchy.

Fact: Helen Mirren won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II, and the film was praised for its accurate depiction of royal protocol.

Description: While not about a traditional monarch, this film portrays the reign of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, who styled himself as "His Excellency, President for Life, Field Marshal Al Hadji Doctor Idi Amin Dada, VC, DSO, MC, Lord of All the Beasts of the Earth and Fishes of the Sea, and Conqueror of the British Empire in Africa in General and Uganda in Particular."

Fact: Forest Whitaker won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his chilling performance as Idi Amin.

Description: This film focuses on King George VI's struggle with a stammer and his relationship with his unorthodox speech therapist, Lionel Logue, as he prepares for his unexpected ascension to the throne.

Fact: Colin Firth won an Oscar for his portrayal of King George VI, and the film itself won Best Picture.

Description: Set in early 18th century England, this film revolves around Queen Anne, her close friend Sarah Churchill, and the arrival of Sarah's cousin Abigail, leading to a power struggle for the Queen's favor.

Fact: Olivia Colman won an Oscar for Best Actress for her role as Queen Anne, and the film was praised for its dark humor and unique portrayal of historical events.

Description: This film delves into the life of Hal, Prince of Wales, who becomes King Henry V after his father's death. It's a gritty, realistic portrayal of a young king's ascent to power amidst political turmoil and personal struggles.

Fact: Timothée Chalamet underwent extensive training to portray the young king, including learning to speak with an English accent and mastering medieval combat techniques.