BBB.5
(out of 5)
An impressive performance by a young Helena Bonham Carter, is one of the highlights of this solid period film. She plays Lady Jane Grey, the retiring young woman who was used as a political pawn by her ambitious father to take over the throne of England. Following the death of Henry VIII’s son Edward, the seat of power, which should have gone to Henry’s staunch Catholic daughter Mary Tudor, is instead bequeathed to Jane in an effort to keep a Protestant on the throne. Her reign, at the age of 16, lasts nine days before Mary finally storms in to take over and have Jane executed as a traitor. Within this short lifetime, Jane manages to awaken to knowledge and passion, thanks to what she learns as a new queen and her forced marriage to a man (Cary Elwes) she eventually grows to love. Tragic and melancholy, the film is given intelligent direction by Trevor Nunn and a lush, authentic recreation of the period.
Capital Equipment Leasing, Paramount Pictures
Directed by Trevor Nunn
Story by Chris Bryant, Screenplay by David Edgar
Cinematography by Derek V. Browne, Douglas Slocombe
Produced by Peter Snell
Music by Stephen Oliver
Production Design by Allan Cameron
Costume Design by Sue Blane, David Perry
Film Editing by Anne V. Coates
