(Left: Anne; Right: Mary)
The classic story of Henry VIII’s spousal struggles has been retold from a fresh approach in Justin Chadwick’s new film, The Other Boleyn Girl . The story is told from the perspective of Anne and Mary Boleyn; two sisters, torn apart by the greedy and forceful nature of their father and uncle. I really enjoyed how the story was less focused on the goings-on of Henry VIII, and moreso on the relationship between the sisters.
The film stars Natalie Portman as Anne Boleyn, a strong and adventurous independent older sister to Mary Boleyn, (played by Scarlett Johansson) a shy and reserved simple girl, who follows the rules. It also stars Eric Bana, (of Troy fame) who hands in a powerful performance of anger; and rising star Ben Sturgess, (currently in 21, and Across the Universe) who provides a bit of comic relief as the girls’ younger brother, George Boleyn.
The trailers make this film out to be a sexual warfare between two sisters, when it really ends up becoming more of a dark tragedy. It begins with the Boleyn men forcing Anne to throw herself at the King to receive social status and financial blessings. When things go awry, plans change as Mary (who already had a husband) is now forced to sleep with Henry. This drives the sisters apart, as the men in the family gain more power and control over them, ultimately driving Anne to execution, and Mary to sadness.
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