THE TUDORS

THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL (2008)

The only thing that could come between these sisters... is a kingdom.

The official film site.

A lavish 2008 Hollywood adaptation and remake of a BBC 2003 television film based on the best-selling novel of the same name by British author Philippa Gregory.

The other Boleyn Girl is an engrossing and sensual tale of intrigue, romance, and betrayal set against the backdrop of a defining moment in history.

Two sisters, Anne (Natalie Portman, "Cold Mountain") and Mary (Scarlett Johansson, "Girl with a Pearl Earring", "Mary Queen of Scots") Boleyn, are driven by their ambitious father and uncle to advance the family’s power and status by courting the affections of the king of England (Eric Bana). Leaving behind the simplicity of country life, the girls are thrust into the dangerous and thrilling world of court life – and what began as a bid to help their family develops into a ruthless rivalry between Anne and Mary for the love of the king.

Initially, Mary wins King Henry’s favor and becomes his mistress, bearing him an illegitimate child. But Anne, clever, conniving, and fearless, edges aside both her sister and Henry’s wife, Queen Katherine of Aragon (Ana Torrent), in her relentless pursuit of the king. Despite Mary’s genuine feelings for Henry, her sister Anne has her sights set on the ultimate prize; Anne will not stop until she is Queen of England.

As the Boleyn girls battle for the love of a king – one driven by ambition, the other by true affection – England is torn apart. Despite the dramatic consequences, the Boleyn girls ultimately find strength and loyalty in each other, and they remain forever connected by their bond as sisters.

Henry, to Mary, who is tending his wound: "And who are you?"

Mary: "Mary, your Grace."

Henry: "The other Boleyn girl?"

Mary: "Yes."

Henry, looks her up and down: "You've been here all week-end?"

Mary: "Yes, your Grace."

Henry: "Really? How could I have overlooked you?"

Mary: "Next to Anne, it's easy to do."

Ladies, hold your breaths for:

* The handsome Aussie Eric Bana (b. 1968, "Troy") as King Henry VIII.


For fun (or just to be thorough), read the original novel by Philippa Gregory and the script by Peter Morgan back-to-back, and watch the BBC Two's 2003 version and this 2008 Hollywood version back-to-back.