by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
How much influence can one person have on history? There have been countless rulers who have shaped the world by their actions (with mostly terrible ramifications along the way). The same can be said about politicians. There are inventors who have improved the world with one simple creation, or some who have brought destruction upon humanity. But sometimes it is the little things that can make such a big splash. Sometimes it just takes one motivated person who has a mission to shed light on the truth to reshape humanity’s perspective.
What wild true story do co-writer Steve Coogan and director Stephen Frears have in store for audiences with The Lost King? Thanks to the creative influence of William Shakespeare, the world perceived Richard III as a tyrant usurper who overtook the throne of England. But one woman, Philippa Langley (Sally Hawkins), saw things differently and wanted to reshape the perception of this true King of England. This is the story that Coogan and Jeff Pope bring to life in this sincere and charming script.
But is the screenplay worthy of this unbelievable story about finding the lost remains of a king? The route that they choose to take is much more sentimental and fantastical than truly miraculous. This film could have been quite compelling, but it instead trades that in for a more artful and emotional dynamic. The big selling piece is that Philippa sees the physical manifestation of King Richard III. But these scenes really don’t add much, except to flesh out Hawkins’ lead performance. Narratively, it just makes things more complicated. Philippa’s own son points this out, but the film decides to treat it as normal without much explanation. The film also (kind of) focuses on Philippa’s family life and unique dynamic with her ex-husband, but this whole piece just feels tacked on without much resolution.
Does Frears offer much in terms of his direction? He goes for more theatrics instead of building real tension. The film leans on easily hated and one-dimensional antagonists, as well as a top-notch and dynamic score from Alexandre Desplat to make up for much of it. The film feels more flimsy and schmaltzy when there could have been more depth. But it is still charming and sweet despite those shortcomings.
But who makes this film truly worthwhile? Hawkins. Coogan and Mark Addy offer up some solid supporting turns, but it is Hawkins who delivers a dynamic and memorable performance. She is charming and strong despite her health issues. Her stature might be big, but there is a magnetic presence whenever Hawkins appears on screen. It is her empathetic and sincere performance that throws a line out to the audience so we all can connect to this miraculous and unbelievable story. Hawkins is one of the most underappreciated actors out there, and this is a nice vehicle for her to shine.
Is The Lost King a film worth your time out in theaters? This is a charming and nicely shot little film that will fly under the radar for many. Hawkins’s performance is worth the price of admission, and this story is worth digging further into later one. There was so much more that could have been explored, but the approach taken with this film that leaves a fine product nonetheless.
Score: 6/10
The Lost King is currently playing in theaters
You can read more from Shane Conto, and follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd