The Lost King movie is a brilliant modern day quest, a mystery of great historical significance. While you think you know the story, you might be surprised. Fascinating to hear the telling of two untold stories. Put it on your must see list.
Philippa Langley’s (Sally Hawkins) life isn’t going according to plan. Overlooked at work, one night she goes to see a the Shakespearean play about Richard III. There her life takes a turn, a big turn the impacts history.
Philippa starts researching the life of Richard III and finds the kindred spirit of someone not given a chance to reach their full potential.
Deemed a “usuper of the throne”, a person who takes a position of power or importance illegally or by force, his legacy was not good. History overlooked his time as King of England from 1483 to 1485 and it was said his body was unceremoniously hurled into a river.
As Philippa delved deeper her passion grew. She started on her own quest, to find the lost king. But experts and academics didn’t take her seriously,. Thanks to modern day Crowd Funding she raised the funds for an archaeological dig on a site she believed important, a car park in Leicester.
It is not giving anything away to say that in 2012, having been lost for over 500 years, the remains of King Richard III were discovered beneath that insignificant carpark in Leicester.
The Lost King is a compelling movie, a modern day mystery of great historical significance. It has you intrigued all the way even though you know the result. Sally Hawkins plays Philippa with so much heart and compassion, you’ll be silently yelling at the screen for people to stop overlooking her. One of her best performances yet. Steve Coogan also does a good job of playing the grey man, ex-husband John Langley.
The movie touches on messages about double standards, following your passion, believing in yourself and the power of research. How good is it that we live in a time when we don’t have to rely on organisations and academia for funding? The power of the people’s money shines through.
While it is pleasing that the story of King Richard it told, it is even more pleasing that Philippa Langley’s story is told. How fitting that we learn the term “usuper” just in time to apply it to those who took credit for Langley’s work.
Makes sure you wait until the end to read the full impact of Philippa’s quest. Fascinating.
Rating 8/10
For more information to go Luna Cinemas Starting on Boxing Day.
