Watch Wolf Hall

Wolf Hall is a historical drama television series that premiered on BBC Two in 2015. It is an adaptation of the novels Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel, which chronicle the rise of Thomas Cromwell, a low-born lawyer who became the chief minister to King Henry VIII during the tumultuous years of the English Reformation.

The series stars Mark Rylance as Cromwell, a cunning and ambitious man who rises to power through his intelligence and political acumen. Damian Lewis plays King Henry VIII, a mercurial and volatile monarch who is alternately charming and terrifying. Claire Foy portrays Anne Boleyn, the queen consort who captures the king's heart but eventually falls from grace.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Bernard Hill as the pious Duke of Norfolk, Anton Lesser as the scheming Sir Thomas More, Mark Gatiss as the conniving Bishop Stephen Gardiner, and Mathieu Amalric as the French ambassador Eustache Chapuys.

The show is a richly detailed, immersive experience that transports viewers back to the court of King Henry VIII. From the opulent palaces to the dingy taverns, the sets and costumes are meticulously crafted to evoke the period. The dialogue is similarly faithful to the language and customs of the time, which may be challenging for some viewers but lends a sense of authenticity to the proceedings.

At the heart of the series is the dynamic between Cromwell and the king. Rylance imbues his character with a quiet intensity and a depth of feeling that is often at odds with his calculated political maneuvers. Lewis, meanwhile, is a delight to watch as he captures the arrogance and impulsiveness of the monarch. Together, they make for a captivating pairing as they navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and personal relationships.

The series is also notable for its portrayal of women, who are often relegated to the sidelines in stories set in this period. Anne Boleyn is a complex and compelling character, whose ambition and wit are both her greatest strengths and her downfall. Claire Foy brings depth and nuance to the role, making Anne a force to be reckoned with despite her uncertain fate.

Other female characters, such as Katherine of Aragon (Joanne Whalley) and Catherine Parr (Joanne Whalley), also receive intriguing storylines that delve into their struggles and personal histories.

Overall, Wolf Hall is a compelling and beautifully crafted drama that offers a fresh take on a well-trodden period of history. With its exceptional cast, gorgeous visuals, and intricate writing, it's no wonder that it was met with critical acclaim and has become a beloved classic for fans of historical dramas.

Wolf Hall is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between January 21, 2015 and on BBC Two