The Madness Of King George

327 Words2 Pages
The Madness of King George is a Pre -20th Century, 1788 to be exact, period film about the life and mental state of George III several years after having lost the colonies in some sort of skirmish ( he refuses to acknowledge their existence as a country). Britain is settling into a new age, and lovable old George is decidedly "old school". The film focus on the inner working of court life, the royal family, and parliament as each unit attempts to redefine itself in light of the King's failing health. The cast is excellent with Nigel Hawthorne carrying the movie with his performance as the King fighting to maintain control of his mind, family, and country. Hallucinations, erratic behavior, or maybe even complete mental insanity would be just a few ways to describe King George III. Accompanied by symptoms of acute abdominal pain, discolored urine, and fever, George's unrestrained behavior is increasingly outrageous and it soon becomes clear that he is not fit to rule. His son and heir, Prince of Wales, sees a chance for power and with the help of Pitt's rival politician, a bill is proposed to establish the prince regent, reigning in the king's instead. They prescribe a treatment of blistering, purgatives, and hot baths, but there is no improvement. As the king's condition deteriorates, Dr Willis, a determined doctor with experience of treating such symptoms, is summoned. He is not nice and make it clear that he will not tolerate any misbehavior. By luck or good judgment, George's recovery is a success. He returns to the senate to take his position on the throne and to lambast his plotting son. This movie was very entertaining. Acting performances was great by everyone in the film. The barbaric treatment by physicians were terrible. The movie had drama but also humor. I really enjoyed it and will
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