The widespread popularity of Game of Thrones, a fantasy show set in historical times, has triggered a revived fascination with history among movie creators, according to the author of a new film about the reign of William the Conqueror.
The television series Game of Thrones, based on George RR Martin’s bestselling series, attracted a large audience for each episode and became one of the most popular shows in history. Its storylines and characters were influenced by real historical figures, such as Aegon the Conqueror who is believed to have been inspired by William the Conqueror.
Currently, directors are working on two major films centered around the 11th-century ruler of Normandy, whose victory over England’s Harold II at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 greatly impacted British history.
A film, The Conquest: William the Conqueror, will depict the life of a renowned leader, known for both fear and admiration. Additionally, a TV series called King and Conqueror, featuring actor James Norton from Happy Valley, will tell the tale of a significant conflict that shaped the fate of a nation.
Solomon J LeFlore, the creator and writer of The Conquest, stated that the blockbuster success of Game of Thrones has sparked a newfound fascination in the film industry for action-packed historical adventures. He likened his own film to “a dramatic tale in the style of Shakespeare, incorporating all the key elements that have made Game of Thrones and other historical sagas such a beloved genre.”
According to him, the tale of William the Conqueror, the Duke of Normandy, is captivating and filled with dramatic turns and dynamic characters. He also noted that historical movies are especially popular among young individuals who seek to temporarily escape from the troubles of the present world, such as those in Ukraine, Gaza, Taiwan, Mali, and Myanmar. He suggested that the popularity of Marvel films, which feature relatable and multifaceted characters, may have influenced the demand for similar historical films.
“William possesses all the key traits that appeal to young viewers, particularly those who are into video games, when it comes to strong and heroic characters.”
Game of Thrones had its share of spectacular battle scenes, but the Battle of Hastings is the ultimate conflict to stir imaginations. Before his death from wounds received on the battlefield, Harold says in the The Conquest’s screenplay that “arrows fly and blood flows”, adding: “It seems that blood is the quickest path to power.”
Even though the Bayeux tapestry, a remarkable work of 11th-century Romanesque art, depicts the epic tale, LeFlore is surprised that there has not been a full-length film about William the Conqueror until now, aside from a 2015 TV show. This is a curious phenomenon considering the captivating nature of his story during a significant period in history. Despite numerous adaptations of Robin Hood, William’s transformative role has yet to be portrayed on screen.
The movie is focused on being historically accurate: “William’s life was incredibly interesting. Why would you stray from the factual history of the story? There is no justification for doing so.”
The filmmaker mentioned that his film will portray William’s wife, Matilda of Flanders, as a strong and influential figure. He stated, “Matilda was one half of the world’s first power couple. Together, William and Matilda shaped English and European history.” While some creative liberties were taken in the movie, it remains largely true to historical events. In a particular scene from the screenplay, Matilda forewarns that her husband plans to have Harold killed and his remains scattered across Normandy.
Individuals contributing to the production of the new movie include Richard Taylor, who has won an Oscar and is a co-founder of Wētā Workshop, a prop design and special effects company based in New Zealand. Taylor is most recognized for his contributions to Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy.
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The individuals who will be acting in the production have not been revealed, but there is speculation that prominent actors such as Hayden Christensen, known for his role as Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars series, may play William, while Tom Hiddleston, famous for portraying Loki, the main antagonist of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, may take on the role of Harold.
A photoshoot is scheduled for the coming year in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
The upcoming eight-episode TV show will feature Game of Thrones’ Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as William and also stars Norton, known for roles in Greta Gerwig’s 2019 movie Little Women, as Harold.
The show will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. According to Sue Deeks, the head of BBC programme acquisitions, the UK mainly remembers the basic facts of William the Conqueror, the Battle of Hastings, and King Harold’s death.
“King and Conqueror will portray the lives, relationships, and political rivalry between Harold and William, culminating in their pivotal encounter in 1066.”
Source: theguardian.com
