About King Charles II
King Charles II of England reigned during a pivotal period of the country’s history. When his father was executed during the English Civil War and Oliver Cromwell took power, Charles II went into exile. After Cromwell’s death, Charles returned to England and reclaimed the throne. He reversed many of Cromwell’s policies and continued the struggle with the English Parliament, marking his reign as The Restoration. The mini-series “Charles II: The Power and the Passion” dives deep into this intriguing historical figure.
Review
“Charles II: The Power and the Passion” is a fitting name for this mini-series, which balances Charles’ personal life and his political challenges. Initially, the series feels somewhat like a soap opera, focusing on Charles’ numerous mistresses, with Barbara Villiers being the most prominent and manipulative among them. Helen McCrory’s portrayal of Barbara is impressively cunning and wicked. However, the show’s excessive focus on Charles’ romantic antics can become tiresome.
Luckily, the series later shifts its attention to the political drama, which makes for a much more engaging storyline.
The King Versus Parliament
Throughout his reign, Charles II was embroiled in a relentless struggle with Parliament over who would ultimately control England. An important aspect of this conflict was religious tolerance. At the time, England had a strong anti-Catholic sentiment, and with no legitimate heir, Charles’ Catholic brother James was next in line, causing significant tension. Parliament pressured Charles to oppose the Catholic faith, but he firmly believed in religious tolerance. Some government factions even plotted to place his eldest illegitimate son on the throne.
The series encompasses various historical events, such as a war with the Dutch, the Great Plague, and the Great Fire of London. It also touches on Charles’ secret agreement with the French king about his possible conversion to Catholicism, culminating in a surprising scene in Parliament.
Performances of Note
“Charles II: The Power and the Passion” features an outstanding cast. Besides Helen McCrory, Martin Freeman stands out as Lord Shaftesbury, Charles’ parliamentary adversary. Shirley Henderson shines as Charles’ loyal but infertile wife, and Rupert Graves delivers a gripping performance as the Duke of Buckingham, whose loyalty comes into question.
However, Rufus Sewell, playing King Charles, steals the show. His portrayal brings out a complex character with both strengths and weaknesses, making viewers empathize with him despite his moral ambiguities. Sewell’s performance is arguably one of his best, making the king both a rogue and a sincere figure.
History Come to Life
While the series takes some creative liberties, it remains mostly accurate and brings this interesting era to life. Sandwiched between the English Civil War and The Glorious Revolution, Charles’ reign was filled with moral dilemmas and crucial debates about power and religion. The series also introduces viewers to influential figures around Charles, helping to shape his decisions.
Final Thoughts
“Charles II: The Power and the Passion” offers an enthralling look at a complex historical figure and his times. Despite the heavy focus on bedroom scenes in the first half, the story’s exploration of power struggles is captivating. The series effectively humanizes those in power, showing their potential and flaws which threaten their ideals. This makes the historical drama well worth watching.
