Watch To Kill a King

To Kill a King is a historical drama film from 2003, directed by Mike Barker and starring Tim Roth, Dougray Scott, and Olivia Williams. The movie is set in England during the mid-17th century, a time of political and social turmoil. It tells a fictionalized account of the relationship between Oliver Cromwell (Roth), one of the most iconic figures in English history, and his close friend and colleague, General Thomas Fairfax (Scott), during the period known as the English Civil War.

The story begins in 1645, with the English Civil War raging on. Fairfax, a respected soldier and leader of the New Model Army, decides to ally himself with Cromwell, a fervent Puritan who seeks to establish a Republican government in place of the monarchy. Together, they command an army of revolutionaries who defeat King Charles I (Rupert Everett) and his loyalist troops, leading to his subsequent capture and eventual trial and execution in 1649.

Even though the monarchy is overthrown and Cromwell is hailed as a hero, things don't go as smoothly as they could have. Cromwell is a powerful and ambitious man, driven by his faith and his vision for a better England. However, he soon realizes that ruling a country is much harder than overthrowing a king. He faces resistance from powerful factions within his own ranks, as well as unrest from those who oppose his strict religious beliefs and authoritarian style.

Meanwhile, Fairfax's relationship with Cromwell is strained by his growing disillusionment with the revolution and his desire to find a peaceful solution to the conflict. He becomes increasingly wary of Cromwell's methods and radicalism, and starts to fear that his friend's lust for power may eventually lead to tyranny and destruction.

As the political situation becomes more and more chaotic, the two friends find themselves on opposite sides of a heated debate about the future of England. To Kill a King is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the nature of power, loyalty, and friendship, set against the backdrop of one of the most tumultuous periods in English history. It's a story of idealism and disillusionment, of betrayal and forgiveness, and of the high stakes that come with trying to change the world.

With a cast of skilled actors and a compelling script, To Kill a King is a movie that will keep you engaged from start to finish. Tim Roth delivers a memorable performance as Oliver Cromwell, capturing the complex mix of charisma, brutality, and religious zeal that defined the revolutionary leader. Dougray Scott also shines in his role as Fairfax, imbuing his character with a sense of conflicted loyalty and moral integrity.

Olivia Williams rounds out the cast with her portrayal of Cromwell's wife, Elizabeth, who serves as a counterpoint to her husband's fiery temperament with her serene and pragmatic demeanor. The movie is supported by strong production values, with beautiful cinematography and authentic costumes and sets that transport the viewer to the world of 17th-century England.

Overall, To Kill a King is a captivating and thought-provoking movie that offers a compelling look at one of the most pivotal moments in English history. It's a film that will appeal to history buffs, fans of political dramas, and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted story about the complexities of human relationships. Highly recommended.