Watch Wallis Simpson: Kingmaker

Wallis Simpson: Kingmaker is a 2022 historical drama film about the life of Wallis Simpson, an American socialite who married King Edward VIII of England, causing a constitutional crisis that led to his abdication in 1936. The film is directed by Matthew McDuffie, and stars Alexander Larman as Edward VIII, Ed Owens as Wallis Simpson, and Anna Pasternak as Lady Thelma Furness.

The movie portrays Wallis Simpson as a woman with a strong will and an unyielding ambition, who was determined to become a queen, no matter the cost. It depicts her as a manipulative and calculating figure, who used her charm and personality to seduce the king and entrap him in her web of influence.

The film is divided into three parts, each covering a different aspect of Wallis Simpson's life. The first part focuses on her early years, when she was a young woman from a modest background who married a wealthy businessman and became a socialite. The second part covers her relationship with Edward VIII, from their first meeting to the abdication crisis, and the third part highlights her life after the abdication, when she became an outcast in British society.

Throughout the film, we see Wallis Simpson using her intelligence and wit to manipulate those around her, and to convince Edward VIII to pursue his love for her at any cost. Larman's portrayal of Edward VIII is nuanced and complex, showing him as a man torn between his love for Wallis and his duty to his country.

Owens' portrayal of Wallis Simpson is equally impressive, showing her as a woman who is both vulnerable and ruthless, and who will stop at nothing to achieve her goals. Pasternak's Lady Thelma Furness is also a standout performance, showing her as a loyal friend and confidant to Wallis, who is slowly replaced by the king's mistress.

The film is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography and a rich color palette that captures the glamour and sophistication of the era. The costumes and production design are also top-notch, transporting the viewer back in time to the 1930s.

Overall, Wallis Simpson: Kingmaker is a compelling and thought-provoking film that provides a fascinating insight into the life of one of the most controversial women in British history. It is a must-see for anyone interested in royal history, or for those who enjoy a well-crafted and engaging drama.

Wallis Simpson: Kingmaker is a 2022 art house & international movie with a runtime of 44 minutes.