Watch Wolf Hall season 2 opening as Henry VIII marries Jane Seymour after “bloody” Anne Boleyn beheading

As a cinephile with a penchant for historical dramas and a soft spot for period pieces that delve deep into the intricacies of power dynamics, I am absolutely thrilled about the upcoming release of Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light. Having spent countless hours immersed in the Tudor era through various films and books, I can’t help but feel a sense of familiarity yet anticipation as I watch the opening scenes of this second season.

We’re nearly there! The second season of Wolf Hall will be out soon, only a few days remaining since its much-awaited premiere – over nine years after the initial season received phenomenal praise from critics.

Titled “The Mirror & The Light,” the second season follows the last installment of Hilary Mantel’s trilogy about Henry VIII and his trusted advisor Thomas Cromwell. Once again, Damian Lewis and Mark Rylance step back into their characters from the prior run.

On Sunday, 10th November, I’ll be back on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, and here’s a bit of exciting news for those of you who can’t wait for the new season: the thrilling opening sequences are now available for early viewing!

Initially, the opening five minutes of the premiere episode are now available on the BBC’s main YouTube channel. It’s accurate to note that the show immediately plunges headfirst into significant historical events without any delay.

The video (located below) alternates between depictions of Anne Boleyn’s execution and Henry VIII preparing for his marriage to Jane Seymour, momentarily bringing Claire Foy back into the role of Anne Boleyn, who tragically meets her end.

Following a brief moment of silence, Cromwell says, “If diplomacy and concession prove futile, there remains no other option but to annihilate your adversary. By dawn, Rafe, grasp the axe tightly.

Just like its predecessor, “The Mirror and the Light” is once again being brought to life on screen, this time based on the writings of the late Hilary Mantel. The series has been skillfully adapted by playwright and screenwriter Peter Straughan, with Peter Kosminsky taking charge as director for all six episodes.

Additionally, joining the returning cast are Jonathan Pryce as Cardinal Wolsey, Kate Phillips as Jane Seymour, and Lilit Lesser as Princess Mary. Notable newcomers to the series include Timothy Spall as the Duke of Norfolk, Harry Melling as Thomas Wriothesley, Harriet Walter as Lady Margaret Pole, and Alex Jennings as Stephen Gardiner.

In May of 1536, Anne Boleyn, Henry’s second wife, along with five others from her circle, are executed. Amidst the carnage, Thomas Cromwell rises, furthering his path to power and prosperity. Meanwhile, King Henry finds temporary joy in marriage with his third queen, Jane Seymour.

In a ruthless and violent era, Cromwell, lacking both powerful kin and personal forces, finds himself in a precarious position. Struggling with the ethical dilemmas that come with wielding power, he stands at a crossroads between his moral compass and his will to endure. With Henry VIII having beheaded his queen, no one can claim absolute safety.

Although there was rebellion at home, traitors conspiring abroad, and the possibility of invasion putting immense pressure on Henry’s rule, Cromwell envisions a transformed nation in the reflection of the future. The entirety of England is within his reach, brimming with potential for advancement and religious change. However, as fate would have it, Cromwell’s adversaries are quietly amassing in secret corners.

The question that naturally arises is: for how long can someone endure Henry’s harsh and unpredictable scrutiny?

Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light comes to BBC One and iPlayer on Sunday 10th November.

2024-11-07 20:25

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