Wolf Hall “reminds us why we need the BBC”, says exec producer

Wolf Hall “reminds us why we need the BBC”, says exec producer

As a long-time admirer of British television and literature, I can wholeheartedly say that the return of Wolf Hall is a delightful reminder of why the BBC remains an essential part of our cultural landscape. The series serves as a testament to the unique storytelling prowess that only the BBC possesses, drawing from our rich history and celebrated authors like Dame Hilary Mantel.


Viewers have eagerly awaited the comeback of Wolf Hall for nearly a decade, and as per executive producer Colin Callender, its return underscores the importance of the BBC in our lives.

As I eagerly await the upcoming series, I’ve been reflecting on why Wolf Hall holds such significance for our broadcaster. From my perspective as a dedicated movie enthusiast, it’s the captivating blend of historical intrigue, masterful storytelling, and exceptional performances that sets this drama apart. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a testament to our commitment to bringing compelling narratives to life on screen.

He said: “This is a production that no one else would make other than the BBC. No other British broadcaster would make it, none of the streamers would make it.

Wolf Hall is the type of drama that underscores the importance of the BBC, as it’s an exceptionally British production, delving into our past, reflecting our very essence – a work penned by one of Great Britain’s most revered authors.

He continued: “Thus, we ought to express gratitude towards the BBC, especially since it’s funded through the license fee. This funding enables the BBC to make editorial choices that prioritize serving British viewers instead of being influenced by advertisers, ratings, or the desire to cater to international markets.

This way, the BBC can make bold creative strides that others might not attempt. Their status as a broadcaster doesn’t hinge on the performance of any single show. The BBC is a distinctive cultural pillar in British society, and without it, productions like Wolf Hall would likely never see the light of day.

Wolf Hall “reminds us why we need the BBC”, says exec producer

2015 marked the year when the original show debuted, drawing inspiration from Dame Hilary Mantel’s novel with the same title, along with its sequel Bring Up the Bodies. Now, this new series is focusing on the third book of her Cromwell trilogy, The Mirror and the Light.

In May of 1536, Anne Boleyn, King Henry’s second wife, has been executed. Amidst the carnage, Thomas Cromwell rises, furthering his path toward power and riches. Simultaneously, King Henry finds temporary joy with his third queen, Jane Seymour.

In a period marked by brutality and bloodshed, Cromwell, devoid of any family backing or personal troops, finds himself in a precarious situation. Balancing the demands of morality with the need for survival becomes a constant struggle for him. This is especially true following Henry VIII’s execution of his queen, as no one can guarantee their safety during such tumultuous times.

 

For season 2, the original stars from season 1 are returning to their roles. This includes Mark Rylance portraying Thomas Cromwell, while Damian Lewis continues his role as King Henry VIII. Also joining them are The Crown’s Sir Jonathan Pryce, playing Thomas Wolsey (Cromwell’s mentor), and Kate Phillips from Peaky Blinders who will be portraying Jane Seymour.

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2024-11-12 17:37