This adaptation of Robert Bolt's hit play proved to be both prestigious and commercial. Studio executives were unsure whether folks would turn out for the story of Sir Thomas More, a Catholic statesman in England who rebelled against Henry VIII's self-proclaimed status as the head of the
Church of England and paid for his beliefs with his life.
More (Scofield) is appointed to succeed Cardinal Wolsey (Welles) as Lord Chancellor. He comes to grips with Shaw, as Henry VIII, who wants to divorce his barren wife and take a new bride. Henry needs a male heir, but Rome (for reasons both political and spiritual) won't grant an annulment. Henry
breaks with the Pope, dec...
Released:
1966
Rated:
NR
Length:
120 mins