The widespread popularity of Game of Thrones, a fantasy show set in historical times, has inspired a resurgence of interest in history among filmmakers. This is evident from the author of a new film focusing on the story of William the Conqueror.
The TV show based on George RR Martin’s popular book series, Game of Thrones, attracted a large audience for each episode, solidifying its position as one of the most successful television series ever. The story and characters were heavily influenced by historical figures, such as Aegon the Conqueror, who is believed to be inspired by William the Conqueror.
Currently, directors are working on two major films about the 11th-century ruler, the Norman king, who altered British history by conquering England’s Harold II at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
A movie called “The Conquest: William the Conqueror” will portray the iconic leader who was both feared and admired. Meanwhile, a TV series titled “King and Conqueror”, featuring James Norton from “Happy Valley”, will tell the story of a defining conflict that shaped the fate of a nation.
Solomon J LeFlore, the creator and writer of The Conquest, stated that the massive success of Game of Thrones has sparked a newfound interest in the film industry for action and adventure films based on real historical events. He described his own film as a dramatic and epic tale, comparable to Shakespeare’s works, with all the essential elements that have made Game of Thrones and other historical stories so widely beloved.
The tale of William, the illegitimate Duke of Normandy, is described as gripping and filled with dramatic surprises, according to the speaker. He believes that historical movies are especially appealing to young individuals who wish to break away from present-day issues such as the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Taiwan, Mali, and Myanmar. He also suggests that the popularity of Marvel Universe-based films, which feature relatable and multifaceted characters, could be fueling the demand for similar movies.
“William possesses all the strong qualities that appeal to young viewers, particularly those who enjoy video games, in heroic or formidable characters.”
The popular TV show Game of Thrones featured many impressive battles, but the Battle of Hastings remains the most iconic and thought-provoking conflict. In the film The Conquest, Harold, who ultimately dies from injuries sustained in the battle, declares, “Arrows fly and blood flows.” He also notes, “It appears that blood is the most direct route to gaining power.”
Although the Bayeux tapestry, a remarkable work of 11th-century Romanesque art, documents the epic story, LeFlore is surprised that there has not been a full-length film about William the Conqueror until recently. He finds it puzzling that there have been numerous films about Robin Hood, but not one about William, who played a significant role in history and was a captivating figure.
He is highlighting the importance of historical accuracy in his film: “William’s story was incredibly fascinating. There is no justification for straying from the factual history of it.”
The filmmaker mentioned that his film will showcase William’s wife, Matilda of Flanders, as a powerful figure. He stated, “Matilda was one half of the first power couple in the world. Together, William and Matilda shaped the history of England and Europe.” While some creative liberties were taken, the film stays true to historical events. In a particular scene from the script, Matilda cautions that her husband will have Harold killed and his remains scattered throughout Normandy.
The talented individuals behind the new movie include Richard Taylor, who won an Oscar and co-founded Wētā Workshop, a prop design and special effects company based in New Zealand. Taylor is most renowned for his contributions to Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings film series.
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The cast is yet to be announced, but A-list actors being courted are thought to include Hayden Christensen, who played Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars franchise, as William, and Tom Hiddleston, who became a household name playing Loki, the arch enemy of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as Harold.
A photo shoot is scheduled for the upcoming year in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
The upcoming TV show, consisting of eight episodes, will feature Nikolaj Coster-Waldau from Game of Thrones as William, and Harold played by Norton, known for his work in Greta Gerwig’s Little Women (2019).
The show will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Sue Deeks, the BBC’s head of programme acquisitions, stated that in Britain, we are taught about William the Conqueror, the Battle of Hastings, and King Harold’s violent demise in our history classes, but often that is all we remember.
“King and Conqueror will portray the stories of Harold and William, showcasing their personal lives, relationships, and the intense power struggle that ultimately led to their fateful encounter in 1066.”
Source: theguardian.com
