Films of British Royals

Lately films about British royals have been the theme of my viewing frenzies. Here are two beautiful BBC dramas which I highly recommend.

Bertie and Elizabeth


The film follows the lives of George VI and Queen Elizabeth from their sweet courtship to their rise as British monarchs. George VI "Bertie" is a rather shy and awkward young man with a speech impediment who somewhat reluctantly becomes King after his brother Edward VIII abdicates the throne. And his brave and loving wife Elizabeth stands by his side all through WWII. It is simply a very sweet story of hardships and triumphs, of life and love.
Stars many period actors such as: James Wilby, Juliet Aubrey, Alan Bates, Eileen Atkins, Barbara Leigh-Hunt, Robert Hardy, Elisabeth Dermot Walsh, Corin Redgrave, Oliver Ford Davies, and Paul Brooke.
You can watch Bertie & Elizabeth on YouTube here.


The Lost Prince


I didn't realize this at first but "The Lost Prince" of whom this film centers is the youngest brother of "Bertie" from the film above. Because of he suffered from epileptic seizures and some autism-like disorder Prince Johnny is kept away from the rest of the family and lives a quiet life in the country with his nurse Lalla who's love and encouragement and faith in him help him to achieve over great odds. The film often shows the world through Johnny's eyes in his honest and loving way. A beautiful film but very sad at times, I definitely cried!
Features some old favorites from period dramas including: Gina McKee, Tom Hollander, Miranda Richardson, Bill Nighy (my favorite role of his), and last but not least Michael Gambon.
You can watch The Lost Prince on YouTube here.

I definitely recommend both of these films, they are beautifully done, clean, sweet and filled with historical facts, lovely acting, gorgeous costumes, enchanting and period goodness!

Also in looking for information for this post I found English Monarchs, a website simply stuffed with history on every British ruler. Just a gem to have on hand!