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Parents' Guide to

The King

By Tara McNamara, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Outstanding but brutally violent Henry V historical epic.

Movie R 2019 160 minutes
The King Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

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age 14+

Based on 9 parent reviews

Ms Bo
Ms Bo Parent of 12-year-old
July 25, 2022
age 12+
doctora
doctora Parent of 5-year-old
June 7, 2022
age 15+

Chalamet is solid and the supporting cast is strong, perhaps I am partial to Branagh's Henry V

Chalamet is a delight and his supporting cast is strong. The film has moments of indulgence that drag a bit. It is a different type of film from Branagh's Henry V and one wonders if it is necessary, but it is definitely engaging.
See all 9 parent reviews

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?

Our review:
Parents say (9 ):
Kids say (10 ):

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

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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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