La puttana del re

In all FAIRNESS, more than likely, Mr. Dalton accepted this project because it started out as an interesting character study of a King with an Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder. And how said disorder can lead a person into becoming a stalker, peeping-tom, and lusting after a woman who refuses to have anything to do with him other than "friendship". However, he does become a more nurturing care-giver than Florence Nightingale, and Sister Kenny combined AFTER the object of affection/obsession contracts SMALLPOX!

I truly believe that this flick was supposed to be a real bodice ripper. Y'know, sexcapades in Period Costume, but, then, somehow, it took a diversionary track to "make a statement" about devotion and how "we" are used by those we love and how "we" use those who love us.

Waffling between "historical mock-u-drama" and bodice ripper, loaded down with a female lead that gives no more emotionally than a 2x4 plank of lumber, it's no wonder that Mr. Dalton started chewing on the scenery! Mr. Dalton's talent is too good to be wasted in this dreck!

In summary, if you love Mr. Dalton's work, you'll find SOMETHING redeemable in this film, (I did even though I'll never get the time I spent watching it back!). Otherwise, rent JANE EYRE, or A LION IN WINTER.