The Tudors - Season 3 [DVD] [2009]

The third series to this fantastic drama sees a bit of a departure in tone; whereas the second series showed the lust between Henry and Anne Boleyn through fiery passion, this series sees first of all the more demure Jane Seymour, followed by Anne of Cleves who Henry has no passion for. What this manages to do is to track the possible psychological changes within Henry. It also reflects the change in society in general, as the tension between Catholicism and Protestantism grew.
Although the series may not be the most historically correct in regrad to the minute details, what THE TUDORS does do is bring history to the general public. The necessary facts are there. And the entertainment value remains very high too.
This is a great series - highly recommended.

Having been given Tudors Seasons 1 & 2 as a Christmas gift, we couldn't wait for Season 3 to arrive from Amazon and only had to wait a few days even though we live in Spain. A refreshing, innovative treatment of Henry VIII's rule that introduced us to new, up-and-coming British film stars. Jonathan Rhys Myers (Henry VIII) has had a difficult personal life but now has a great future as an actor on the world stage. Natalie Dormer (Anne Boleyn in Seasons 1 & 2)could become the next Catherine Zeta Jones. Who better than Peter O'Toole as the Pope and watch out for brilliant acting from Cardinal Wolsey, Sir Thomas More and Thomas Cromwell. This is film making that Hollywood cannot do.

So the Tudor saga rolls on, with Jonathan Rhys Meyers giving his usual great performance. He is ably supported by a wonderful cast, and it would seem that the producers have endeavoured to follow the historical events as far as the facts can be ascertained.

King Henry Vlll does not change much in appearance; there are references, to be sure, to his leg ulcer but will we ever see the fat, bloated Henry of history? By series four perhaps? The actress portrayng Jane Seymour is lovely and her death-scene very poingnant. However, King Henry, true to type, recovers quickly and re-marries; it must be remarked in passing that Anne of Cleves as played here, is not the "Ugly Duckling" of history and indeed it must have taken great courage to accept such a role in which one would have that reputation.

In contrast, Catherine Howard wastes no time in filling Anne`s shoes (and bed!) is she fortunate or unfortunate that she cannot see into the future? There is, in fact, an interesting parallel between the saga of Anne Boleyn and mistress Howard. But the viewer must wait for the fourth series to see the next bloody event! (not swearing!) Wonderful drama.

John Harman