The sweeping nature of this German period drama is slightly undercut by apparent budget limitations (most noticeable in the sets), but the story has real power and keeps us gripped throughout the 2.5-hour running time. It’s the true tale of young Henri IV from Navarre (the yummy Julien Boisselier), who married Princess Margot and got entangled in the political and religious wranglings of the Medici family, including conspiracies, assassinations and betrayals as Catholics and Protestants fought for control of France. The strong narrative more than makes up for the unstarry cast and slightly lacklustre production values. (Showbox). 7/10
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