Set over Christmas of 1183, this classic royal costume dramas concerns Henry II's effort to choose a worthy successor. Powerful Henry II (Peter O'Toole) favors his youngest son John (Nigel Terry), while his strong-willed wife Eleanor (Katherine Hepburn) feels the honor should be bestowed upon eldest son Richard the Lionhearted (Anthony Hopkins, in his screen debut). This disagreement leads the family to a war of wills that will stress every bond of love, trust, and honor. This acclaimed adaptation of James Goldman's play was also the first film for Timothy Dalton. Academy Award Nominations: 7, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor--Peter O'Toole. Academy Awards: 3, including Best (Adapted) Screenplay, Best Actress--Katharine Hepburn (shared with Barbra Streisand - "Funny Girl").

Adapted from the James Goldman play, the extraordinary story of the 12th century King of England, and first of the Plantagenets, Henry II and his love/hate, combative relationships with his imprisoned, estranged Queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine and their three surviving sons, Richard (the Lionhearted), Geoffrey, and John (who was later, as king, forced to sign the Magna Carta). The entire story takes place during the Christmas season of 1183 at the Castle of Chinon, in Henry's 50th year. A decision on whom of the three princes is best suited capable to succeed him on the throne when he dies, and keep together his empire, becomes of prime importance, in an amazing and intriguing battle of wills, wit, and words between Henry and Eleanor.

Shot in Eastmancolor and Panavision.

Screen debuts for both Welsh actor Anthony Hopkins and British actor Timothy Dalton.

DVD Features:

Region 1
Keep Case
Single Side - Single Layer
Anamorphic Widescreen - 2.35
Letterbox - 2.35
Audio:
Dolby Digital Mono - English
Additional Release Material:
Audio Commentary
Trailers: Original Theatrical Trailer

Peter O'Toole: Actor, LAWRENCE OF ARABIA
Katharine Hepburn: Oscar-winning American actress, ON GOLDEN POND, THE PHILADEL
Jane Merrow: British Actress
Timothy Dalton: Welsh actor, the 4th James Bond
Anthony Hopkins: Welsh Actor
John Castle: British Actor
Nigel Stock: British Character Actor
Nigel Terry: British Actor

Anthony Harvey: British Director/Editor

Martin H. Poll: American Producer

John Barry: Score composer

Peter James: Director of Photography, MEET THE PARENTS (2000)

John Bloom: Editor - NOT Joe Bob Briggs

"...It's more fun than ever seeing Peter O'Toole trading verbal venom with Katherine Hepburn..."
4 stars out of 5 -- "[T]he combination of James Goldman's sharp script and icily perfect performances from an obscenely talented cast make this a gripping historical thriller."
"...[With] barbed dialogue, sharp characterisations and Machiavellian intrigues..."