MANILA, Philippines - A sophisticated royal family drama is up this week on Q-11’s Premiere Nights as it features The Lion in Winter, starring Patrick Stewart and Glenn Close, based on the screenplay by James Goldman.
Originally created as a Broadway production in 1966 and first adapted in film by director Anthony Harvey in 1968, The Lion in Winter movie-for-TV version is directed by Emmy Award winner Andrei Konchalovsky.
Set in England in 1183, The Lion in Winter tells the tale of King Henry II (Stewart) as he chooses his successor from among his three sons — the prodigal Richard the Lionhearted (Andrew Howard), the opportunistic Geoffrey (John Light), and the unskilled John (Rafe Spall).
King Henry may be England’s terrifying ruler, but equally dreadful is his crafty, ambitious family. All they think of is how they can take advantage of the King’s influence. After years of ruling and now at the flagging stages of his life, King Henry begins to question his purpose and the person he has become. Passing on the crown to his successor seems the only way to relieve him of his agony.
King Henry sets the best time and place, during the Christmas holiday at Chinon Castle in France, to announce the heir to his throne. He invites Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine (Close), his estranged wife and a royal exile, whom he himself imprisoned years ago after she has plotted against him during a political rebellion. Sharp and cunning, Queen Eleanor is prepared to destroy King Henry’s plans. To make matters worse, Alais (Julia Vysotsky), King Henry’s mistress, and her devious brother, King Philip II of France (Jonathan Rhys-Meyers), are attending the celebration.
Who will King Henry choose as his successor? What will Queen Eleanor and the rest of the characters do to fulfill their own schemes? Find out tomorrow, Oct. 28 and on Oct. 29, 8:30 to 9:20 p.m.