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The only person that most people will remember about this dramatic version of the history of Henry VIII's marriages is Keith Michell's performance as Henry VIII. This previous version is less sexier than "The Tudors" running on cable TV, and more to the younger generation's liking, with easily identifiable actors that can double on "Masterpiece Theatre" or in an Bond or an action film here. Actors Dorothy Tutin, Angela Pleasence, Annette Crosbie, Patrick Troughton, and Bernard Hepton who play in "Six Wives" are less known to Americans, but are known to a handful as stock dramatic performers in British film and television. Tutin played Gwendolen in "The Importance of Being Earnest" in the 1950s with the likes of Margaret Rutherford and Michael Redgrave; Angela Pleasence, daughter of actor Donald, occasionally shows up on shows like "Midsomer Murders" and the current "Dr. Who" series, but made her name in British horror films in the 1970s. Annette Crosbie played in Queen Victoria in "Edward VII" another historical drama done during the Seventies, and played the Fairy Godmother in a film with Richard Chamberlain, "The Slipper and the Rose." Recently, she was featured in "William and Mary." Patrick Troughton was an early Dr. Who, and Bernard Hepton showed up in "I, Claudius" as one of the emperor's Greek freedmen ministers in the late 1970s. This costume drama seems quieter and starker than I remember it; it was considered another big thing from Britain at the time, and it was followed by "Elizabeth R" with Glenda Jackson and Robert Hardy as Leicester. It was largely videotaped indoors in sound stages, so it has that enclosed look that has lessened its intimacy and storytelling appeal. The digitized version makes one really see the thick pancake make-up that flattened and diminished deep facial lines to make the actors seem younger and on close-ups, the make-up looks laid on like cement. This was a time when 35-40 year olds still played teenagers. Filmmaking certainly has taken some quantum leaps in 40 years, and in terms of this collection, the only thing that saves it is the acting and the nostalgic value. For this version was more true to historical detail in its time than Hollywood movies ever offered. If you get this 2000 British version, it does not offer closed captions for the hearing impaired. I bought this in tandem with David Starkey's documentary on Henry's marriages. They both compliment each other.Read full review
I had seen this version of the story when it was first aired in the early '70s. Of all the ones thus far produced, this is the most mermorible. Keith Mitchell actually looks like Henry and perfectly captures his character. The six actress who play his wives were chosen for they're resemblance to The actual people, as well as for they're considerable talent. It was made a six separate plays which makes it quite long to view in one sitting, but is well worth the effort. Each section was penned by a different author with every attempt to mantain historical accuracy. The sets and the costumes are magnificant as well. For those with or without an interest in Renaissance England it remains one of the best chronicals of that period. A companion series titled "Elizabeth R" starring Glenda Jackson made by the same company is also available. Make the effort, you'll be glad you did.Read full review
A first-rate BBC historical drama. King Henry himself was a fascinating character and Keith Michell is brilliant in his depiction of the monarch from youth to old age. The six wives are equally well-played and the art direction shows an admirable restraint compared to later productions. A very important part of English history as well as religious history is illuminated by Henry's checkered marital relationships, allowing a deeper understanding of the monarch as ruler, husband and father. In many ways a cautionary tale but still an absorbing first class historical drama.
I LOVE THIS< I LOVE THIS , This the six wives of Henry vlll was done in the 70s and still today nothing else can compare to it. All the actors are wonderful, entertaing, engaging, I, myself have worn out 3 sets watching this over and over. I've also have bought many to give as gifts to my friends and family.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Very old production, color poor, no subtitles which is very important to me. Poor, faded color, no subtitles which is very important to me, production dull as compared to newer movies on this subject. Disappointing.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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