King & Conqueror

I love historic dramas and was looking forward to one set at the time of the Norman Conquest of England.

The story is in no way historically accurate, but I don't mind that, as long as it is well written and believable. The problem is it is not believable - the use of race inappropriate actors for the period totally breaks immersion. Why bother with period costumes if they are going to change the race of characters? Both are equally important for a believable period drama.

There is no evidence at all of Africans at the Battle of Hastings and none in the Norman or Saxon armies. In no way was England "diverse" in the 11th Century.

In the film Prey all Native Americans were played by actors of Native American heritage, in Shogun all Japanese characters were played by amazing Japanese actors. The same respect should be given to white European dramas. I am fed up with these double standards.

I was looking forward to this series based on the advanced publicity and main cast members, however, after watching all 8 episodes on BBC iplayer, I have only awarded 4 stars and that is being generous.

1 It's historically inaccurate.

2 Filmed in Iceland (and it shows) they've used Icelandic Horses which are far smaller than the European horses and Chargers of the day.

3 Costumes aren't accurate.

4 Sound quality leaves a lot to be desired.

I'm afraid if I add more niggles, I may have to award it 3 stars.

So much money spent, such a brilliant cast, why turn this incredibly important story into such gung ho fantasy drivel. Really disappointed coming from the BBC.

Some good acting. Apparently filmed in Iceland. Didnt look much like Normandy or England. Nevertheless worth watching if interested in this period.

Having watched the first episode, I was very distracted with the cast selection. Most of the characters do just not seem to fit. Maybe it will improve as the series progresses, but I will await the TV airings. A shame as it's obvious a lot of work has gone into the series. Good sets and costumes. For me it just doesn't work.

When I'm watching dramas about history, I do like them to be at least a bit historically accurate. Normans looked very different from Anglo Saxons, but in this the wardrobe department has dressed them all the same.

The production looks good but the script and the language are too contemporary. When one of the cast said wow! I gave up it's too painful to watch.

They have assembled some great actors. Nicolaj Coster-Waldau and James Norton as William and Harold are doing their best with what they've been given. Disappointing.