Wolf Hall

Watch Wolf Hall

  • TV-14
  • 2015
  • 1 Season
  • 8.1  (12,245)

Wolf Hall is a historical drama television series that premiered on BBC Two in 2015. It is an adaptation of the novels Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel, which chronicle the rise of Thomas Cromwell, a low-born lawyer who became the chief minister to King Henry VIII during the tumultuous years of the English Reformation. The series stars Mark Rylance as Cromwell, a cunning and ambitious man who rises to power through his intelligence and political acumen. Damian Lewis plays King Henry VIII, a mercurial and volatile monarch who is alternately charming and terrifying. Claire Foy portrays Anne Boleyn, the queen consort who captures the king's heart but eventually falls from grace. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Bernard Hill as the pious Duke of Norfolk, Anton Lesser as the scheming Sir Thomas More, Mark Gatiss as the conniving Bishop Stephen Gardiner, and Mathieu Amalric as the French ambassador Eustache Chapuys. The show is a richly detailed, immersive experience that transports viewers back to the court of King Henry VIII. From the opulent palaces to the dingy taverns, the sets and costumes are meticulously crafted to evoke the period. The dialogue is similarly faithful to the language and customs of the time, which may be challenging for some viewers but lends a sense of authenticity to the proceedings. At the heart of the series is the dynamic between Cromwell and the king. Rylance imbues his character with a quiet intensity and a depth of feeling that is often at odds with his calculated political maneuvers. Lewis, meanwhile, is a delight to watch as he captures the arrogance and impulsiveness of the monarch. Together, they make for a captivating pairing as they navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and personal relationships. The series is also notable for its portrayal of women, who are often relegated to the sidelines in stories set in this period. Anne Boleyn is a complex and compelling character, whose ambition and wit are both her greatest strengths and her downfall. Claire Foy brings depth and nuance to the role, making Anne a force to be reckoned with despite her uncertain fate. Other female characters, such as Katherine of Aragon (Joanne Whalley) and Catherine Parr (Joanne Whalley), also receive intriguing storylines that delve into their struggles and personal histories. Overall, Wolf Hall is a compelling and beautifully crafted drama that offers a fresh take on a well-trodden period of history. With its exceptional cast, gorgeous visuals, and intricate writing, it's no wonder that it was met with critical acclaim and has become a beloved classic for fans of historical dramas.

Wolf Hall
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Seasons
Masters of Phantoms
6. Masters of Phantoms
May 10, 2015
Cromwell is accused of betrayal by Anne after she discovers that he attempted to protect Mary and not Elizabeth in a time of crisis. Anne's power is waning and her enemies are coming together. Anne argues with Jane Rochford and ends up divulging that the musician Mark Smeaton and the nobles Francis Weston and Harry Norris have all declared their love to her, which is a treasonable offence.
Crows
5. Crows
May 3, 2015
The Act of Supremacy has been passed by Henry Supreme Head of the Church in England but the Holy Roman Emperor has refused to recognise either his new title or his recent marriage to Anne Boleyn.
The Devil's Spit
4. The Devil's Spit
April 26, 2015
Anne gives birth to a daughter and Henry does not hide his disappointment. Anne knows that if she is to have any power she needs to give birth to a son and she becomes increasingly paranoid. Elizabeth Barton prophesises that if Henry marries Anne Boleyn is will be very soon.
Anna Regina
3. Anna Regina
April 19, 2015
With the Cardinal dead, Cromwell is next in line to arrange the marriage between the king and Anne Boleyn. Although rewarded for his loyalty, Cromwell is being watched.
Entirely Beloved
2. Entirely Beloved
April 12, 2015
Cardinal Wolsey is forced to relocate to York. Cromwell remains in London, hoping to return the cardinal to the king's favor. As Cromwell's relationship with Henry deepens, there is unexpected news from the north.
Three Card Trick
1. Three Card Trick
January 21, 2015
Unable to secure the annulment of the King Henry's marriage to Katherine of Aragon, Cardinal Wolsey is stripped of his powers. His fate for his future lies with the ever-loyal Thomas Cromwell.
PBS Previews - Wolf Hall
101. PBS Previews - Wolf Hall
March 24, 2015
PBS talks with the creators and cast of Wolf Hall.
Description

Wolf Hall is a historical drama television series that premiered on BBC Two in 2015. It is an adaptation of the novels Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel, which chronicle the rise of Thomas Cromwell, a low-born lawyer who became the chief minister to King Henry VIII during the tumultuous years of the English Reformation.

The series stars Mark Rylance as Cromwell, a cunning and ambitious man who rises to power through his intelligence and political acumen. Damian Lewis plays King Henry VIII, a mercurial and volatile monarch who is alternately charming and terrifying. Claire Foy portrays Anne Boleyn, the queen consort who captures the king's heart but eventually falls from grace.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Bernard Hill as the pious Duke of Norfolk, Anton Lesser as the scheming Sir Thomas More, Mark Gatiss as the conniving Bishop Stephen Gardiner, and Mathieu Amalric as the French ambassador Eustache Chapuys.

The show is a richly detailed, immersive experience that transports viewers back to the court of King Henry VIII. From the opulent palaces to the dingy taverns, the sets and costumes are meticulously crafted to evoke the period. The dialogue is similarly faithful to the language and customs of the time, which may be challenging for some viewers but lends a sense of authenticity to the proceedings.

At the heart of the series is the dynamic between Cromwell and the king. Rylance imbues his character with a quiet intensity and a depth of feeling that is often at odds with his calculated political maneuvers. Lewis, meanwhile, is a delight to watch as he captures the arrogance and impulsiveness of the monarch. Together, they make for a captivating pairing as they navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and personal relationships.

The series is also notable for its portrayal of women, who are often relegated to the sidelines in stories set in this period. Anne Boleyn is a complex and compelling character, whose ambition and wit are both her greatest strengths and her downfall. Claire Foy brings depth and nuance to the role, making Anne a force to be reckoned with despite her uncertain fate.

Other female characters, such as Katherine of Aragon (Joanne Whalley) and Catherine Parr (Joanne Whalley), also receive intriguing storylines that delve into their struggles and personal histories.

Overall, Wolf Hall is a compelling and beautifully crafted drama that offers a fresh take on a well-trodden period of history. With its exceptional cast, gorgeous visuals, and intricate writing, it's no wonder that it was met with critical acclaim and has become a beloved classic for fans of historical dramas.

Wolf Hall is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (7 episodes). The series first aired on January 21, 2015.

Where to Watch Wolf Hall

Wolf Hall is available for streaming on the BBC Two website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Wolf Hall on demand at Google Play, Apple TV and PBS.

  • Premiere Date
    January 21, 2015
  • IMDB Rating
    8.1  (12,245)