“Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light” Review: A Haunting Journey of Power and Regret
“Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light” reignites the tumultuous world of Tudor England, picking up the narrative from the shocking beheading of Anne Boleyn in 1536—a scene depicted in graphic detail that serves as a stark reminder of the political machinations of the time. After a decade-long wait since the first series, fans of Hilary Mantel’s acclaimed Thomas Cromwell trilogy are finally treated to the captivating continuation of this historical saga.
A Decade Later: The Aging Cromwell
The long-awaited sequel returns with powerhouse actor Mark Rylance, who compellingly embodies Thomas Cromwell—a man caught in the web of King Henry VIII’s intrigue and ruthless politics. While Rylance is now a decade older than the Cromwell he portrays, this aging lends an authentic weariness to the character. Haunted by the ghosts of his past, particularly the consequences of his role in Boleyn’s demise, Cromwell appears more beaten down, wrestling with the moral implications of his actions. As he reflects on his tumultuous journey as Henry VIII’s political operator, viewers find themselves immersed in a richly layered narrative filled with historical complexity.
The Feel of Decline: From Ascendancy to Anxiety
Unlike the earlier series, which portrayed Cromwell’s rise from humble origins as a gritty success story, “The Mirror and the Light” navigates a darker tone—where foreboding and dread prevail over triumph. Cromwell’s initial confidence gives way to uncertainty as his miscalculations unravel the threads of his carefully woven political tapestry. The series artfully employs flashbacks and haunting scenes, including poignant interactions with the ghost of Cardinal Wolsey, brilliantly played by Jonathan Pryce. These spectral conversations provide comedic relief while simultaneously deepening the emotional resonance of Cromwell’s guilt over his past failures.
A Struggle with Stagnation
However, the series also encounters moments of tedium. As Cromwell introspects and navigates the complicated marriage politics of the aging Henry, the relentless cycle of regret becomes redundant across the six episodes. Watching Cromwell grapple with his choices, particularly as he reflects on the politics of Henry’s third to fifth marriages, can feel less gripping compared to the electrifying events of the first series.
Women in Cromwell’s Life: A Humanizing Influence
To counterbalance the somber tone, screenwriter Peter Straughan introduces a cast of female characters who provide emotional depth and highlight Cromwell’s complexities. Jane Seymour, portrayed by Kate Phillips, is notably poignant as the queen whose tragic death shakes Cromwell’s already fragile state. Furthermore, Dorothea Wolsey (Hannah Khalique-Brown) and Henry’s daughter Mary (a standout performance by Lilit Lesser) further enrich the narrative. Their interactions with Cromwell offer a glimpse of his more compassionate side, adding layers to his character amidst the unforgiving world of Tudor politics.
Court Intrigue: Monotony Within Malice
As tension mounts, Cromwell faces opposition from adversarial forces within the court. Yet, the portrayal of these political rivalries lacks the spark and intensity one might hope for. The scheming of figures like Timothy Spall and Alex Jennings falls flat against a backdrop that, despite a richly textured setting, often resembles a tedious cycle of courtly disputes devoid of the captivating stakes witnessed in previous episodes.
Damian Lewis as Henry: The Show’s Unrivaled Charm
Undeniably, the series finds another gear when Damian Lewis graces the screen as the captivating yet ruthless Henry VIII. His magnetic presence casts a long shadow over the court, making him a powerful force that both commands respect and inspires fear. Wherever he is, the specter of his decisions looms large, keeping viewers on edge. While Rylance’s complex portrayal of Cromwell is commendable, it’s Lewis’s performance that often takes center stage, reminding viewers that Henry, though a secondary character, illuminates the narrative path with his magnetic charisma.
Conclusion: A Dark Yet Compelling Continuation
“Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light” serves as a haunting exploration of ambition, regret, and the inherent darkness in the pursuit of power. Despite some narrative fatigue, the series presents a rich tapestry of historical drama, expertly anchored by Rylance and Lewis’s outstanding performances. This continuation, though marred by its melancholic introspection, ultimately rewards viewers with a poignant meditation on the price of greatness, compelling both history buffs and drama enthusiasts alike to reflect on the shadows of the past.
For those eager to dive deeper into Hilary Mantel’s universe, consider reading more about the historical context of the Tudor period and Mantel’s remarkable trilogy.
