Watch The Madness of King George

The Madness of King George, a 1994 historical drama film, tells the story of King George III's descent into madness and the political crisis that ensues in 1788 England. Nigel Hawthorne plays the titular character, while Helen Mirren plays Queen Charlotte, his devoted wife, and Rupert Graves plays their son and heir, Prince of Wales.

The movie opens with a series of scenes that demonstrate the king's eccentricities and quirks, such as his fascination with astronomy and his attempts to speak with his pet birds. However, his behavior becomes increasingly erratic and unpredictable, leading to concerns about his mental health. Eventually, he begins to suffer from episodes of confusion, delirium, and violent outbursts, leading his family and advisors to seek medical help.

The king's condition causes a political crisis, as his inability to rule effectively leaves the country without a functional government. Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger (played by Julian Wadham) tries to keep the situation under control, but he is hampered by the opposition of the Prince of Wales, who seeks to exploit the king's weakness to increase his own power. Meanwhile, the king's doctors, led by Dr. Francis Willis (played by Ian Holm), employ a variety of questionable treatments, such as bloodletting and purging, in an attempt to cure him.

As the story unfolds, we see the impact of the king's madness on those around him. His ministers and advisors struggle to maintain order, while his family members must cope with the emotional burden of watching their loved one disintegrate before their eyes. The film also explores the relationship between the king and his wife, which is portrayed as a loving and supportive partnership that is tested by the challenges they face.

One of the film's strengths is its performances. Nigel Hawthorne delivers a compelling portrayal of the king, capturing both his grandeur and his vulnerability. Helen Mirren shines as the queen, conveying her deep affection for her husband and her efforts to protect him from harm. Rupert Graves is also impressive as the prince, effectively conveying his ambition and disdain for his father.

The film's production values are also noteworthy. The sets and costumes are lavish and detailed, transporting viewers to the opulent world of 18th century England. The score, composed by George Fenton, enhances the film's emotional impact, adding depth and nuance to the characters' experiences.

Overall, The Madness of King George is a powerful and engaging drama that explores the impact of mental illness on an individual and society. It is a poignant reminder of the fragility of the human mind and the importance of compassion and understanding in times of crisis.

The Madness of King George is a 1994 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2 and a MetaScore of 89.