Watch Wallis & Edward
- NR
- 2005
- 1 hr 33 min
-
6.4 (514)
Wallis & Edward is a 2005 movie about the controversial love story between Wallis Simpson, an American socialite, and King Edward VIII of England, who famously abdicated the throne in order to be with her. The movie is set in the early 1930s, before Edward had become king, and focuses on the burgeoning romance between him and Wallis, who at the time was still married to her second husband. Joely Richardson plays Wallis, and she captures both the glamour and the vulnerability of the woman who would come to be known as the most hated woman in England. David Westhead plays Edward, and he does an excellent job of portraying the royal as a man torn between duty and love.
The story begins when Wallis meets Edward at a party in London. He is immediately drawn to her charm and wit, and they embark on a passionate love affair that quickly becomes the talk of high society. However, their relationship is not without its challenges, as Wallis's marital status and American background make her an unlikely prospect for the future king of England.
As Edward's feelings for Wallis deepen, he becomes increasingly conflicted about his duties as monarch. He is torn between his love for her and his responsibilities to the British Empire, and his advisors urge him to end the affair before it becomes a scandal. Meanwhile, Wallis faces her own challenges, as she struggles to maintain her independence and reputation in the face of intense scrutiny from the press and the royal establishment.
The movie does an excellent job of capturing the atmosphere of the time, with beautiful costumes and sets that evoke the glamour and decadence of the era. The acting is also top-notch, with strong performances from the entire cast. In particular, Lisa Kay stands out as Thelma Furness, Edward's former lover who becomes a confidante and friend to Wallis.
As the story unfolds, the tension between Edward's love for Wallis and his sense of duty to the crown becomes increasingly palpable. This culminates in the famous abdication crisis of 1936, when Edward gives up the throne in order to marry Wallis. The movie depicts this moment with great emotional clarity, showing the agony that Edward and Wallis went through as they made the decision to put love above duty.
Overall, Wallis & Edward is a beautifully crafted movie that tells a compelling love story against the backdrop of one of the most controversial moments in British history. Its strong performances, lush visuals, and intricate storytelling make it a must-watch for any fans of historical dramas.