Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Outstanding but brutally violent Henry V historical epic.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
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The King
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 13 kid reviews
Kids say the movie offers impressive cinematography and strong acting, but it is noted for its significant levels of violence and gory battle scenes, which may not be suitable for younger viewers. While many appreciated the historical aspects and character development, the frequent scenes of brutality could be off-putting for some audiences.
- strong acting
- impressive cinematography
- significant violence
- historical themes
- character development
- viewer discretion
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Adapted from Shakespeare's "Henriad" plays (Henry V, Henry IV Part I, and Henry IV Part II) but written in a more modern but still formal style, THE KING follows Hal, the Prince of Wales (Timothée Chalamet), who has disavowed his royal heritage, choosing to spend his days reveling and partying, Tudor style. But when his father dies shortly after his brother's death, Hal is unexpectedly crowned King Henry V. He intends to create a new day for England, one that will thrive in peace and find unity. But he must first contend with the late king's friends and foes.
Is It Any Good?
This outstanding historical epic boasts beautiful cinematography, strong performances, and a phenomenal battle scene. The luxe production design exists in a palette of gray, which implies that trouble is constantly brewing. The art design of each scene creates an authenticity that makes it feel like you're there -- particularly during the epic Battle of Agincourt. That attack sequence plays like Saving Private Ryan: Medieval Times. This isn't about elegant swordsmanship and proud, victorious cheers; rather, it's down and dirty, with punching, suffocating, drowning, and whatever-it-takes fighting, with bodies mashing up against each other like a murderous mosh pit. It's brutal, but it ultimately delivers understanding: You realize that this must be what it was truly like to fight in the 15th century.
The Shakespeare plays The King is based on aren't the ones usually assigned as required reading, so it may be difficult to get teens to watch -- but do try. While running a country at a young age isn't likely to happen to any viewers, by the movie's end, Hal learns a significant life lesson that today's kids can apply as they step into the workplace. Chalamet and co-star Joel Edgerton (who also co-wrote and produced) put in fantastic, believable performances, and those who grew up with Twilight will get a kick out of Robert Pattinson, who surprises with an unexpected twist on a French prince who delights at riling the young king into war.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Hal shows compassion for his brother and his troops in The King. How does he demonstrate courage and self-control? Why are these important character strengths?
What do you think about the filmmakers' choice to scrap Shakespeare's dialogue for a more modern spoken style? What other changes are made to this ancient story? How does this film compare to other Shakespeare-inspired works with a modern-day spin, such as Romeo + Juliet or 10 Things I Hate About You?
How did the movie's violent scenes affect you? Does all media violence have the same impact?
Given his behavior at the beginning and end of the film, would you say Hal has integrity? Is there a point where you think he lost his way? There's a saying that "absolute power corrupts absolutely." How does this apply to Hal's father? Do you think Hal's behavior becomes corrupt?
What did you think of the shocking reveal at the end of The King? What could Hal have done to prevent being manipulated? Is there anything that applies to real life now?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 11, 2019
- On DVD or streaming : November 1, 2019
- Cast : Timothée Chalamet , Joel Edgerton , Robert Pattinson
- Director : David Michod
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Book Characters , History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity
- Run time : 160 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some strong violence and language
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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