Jude Law Rocks “Sickening” Fragrance as “Rotting” King Henry VIII in ‘Firebrand’
Jude Law is known for his dedication to his craft, but his latest role as King Henry VIII in the film “Firebrand” took his commitment to a whole new level. To authentically portray the ailing monarch, Law went to extreme lengths, including wearing a specially concocted fragrance designed to make him smell as if he were “actually rotting.”
In a recent interview with Yahoo Entertainment, Law explained the rationale behind this unusual choice. “I read that Henry, because of these agonizing ulcers he had on his legs, really smelled like he was actually rotting,” Law said. “So we came up with this disgusting odor that created a pungency and sickening scent around him.” This olfactory detail was part of a broader effort to create a “360-degree set” and an “ambience of truth,” as envisioned by director Karim Aïnouz.
The film, which is now playing in select theaters, delves into the final days of King Henry VIII’s life. Law’s portrayal captures the monarch’s physical and mental decline, exacerbated by severe ulcers and infections that led to unstable paranoia. His wife, Katherine Parr, played by Alicia Vikander, struggles to care for her abusive husband while concealing her radical religious beliefs.
“Firebrand” made its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival last year, where it garnered significant attention. Roadside Attractions and Vertical subsequently acquired the U.S. rights to the film, bringing it to a wider audience.
The film’s commitment to historical accuracy extended beyond just the scent. The set was meticulously designed to reflect the late 1540s, complete with live animals, period-appropriate room temperatures, and strategically selected herbs for certain scenes. This attention to detail helped the actors immerse themselves fully in their roles, creating a more authentic and engaging experience for the audience.
Alicia Vikander, who plays Katherine Parr, shared her thoughts on the film and her character in a recent episode of the “Just for Variety” podcast. “I must confess, I almost felt a bit embarrassed when I was sent the script because I think if I knew anything, it was probably more about the wives that didn’t make it,” Vikander said. “I was, in one way, sad. But then I realized speaking to other people, it seemed like that was the general feel for most, that we have the least knowledge about this woman who actually did survive X amount of years living with this man, and even outlived him.”
Vikander’s portrayal of Parr aims to shed light on a lesser-known figure in history. Catherine Parr, often overshadowed by Henry’s other wives, endured both physical and emotional abuse from the king. At one point, Henry ordered his minions to find evidence of her supposed betrayals to justify her execution. Despite the constant threat, Parr managed to navigate the treacherous waters of the Tudor court, maintaining her position and ultimately outliving Henry.
The dynamic between Law and Vikander on set was intense, especially given the heavy material they were working with. Vikander recalled the first time she saw Law in full costume, describing it as one of the bigger rehearsals they had. “Because mostly because we wanted to see, can he fit through the door and things like that,” she said. While Law wasn’t method in his approach, he did stay within character more during the initial stages of filming to fully embody the role.
The film explores not just the political intrigue of the Tudor court but also the domestic violence Parr suffered. Vikander explained that Parr had to “justify her existence,” knowing full well what the king was capable of. “She had to create a relationship with this man,” Vikander said. “I think, if anything, she maybe loved the monarch and the king, because from reading her texts, she feels it’s a role that she sees herself within, almost like she’s been chosen by God to become a queen.”
“Firebrand” is a compelling blend of historical drama and personal struggle, brought to life by the dedicated performances of its lead actors. Jude Law’s commitment to authenticity, even to the point of wearing a “sickening” fragrance, adds a layer of realism that enhances the film’s impact. Alicia Vikander’s portrayal of Katherine Parr offers a nuanced look at a woman who navigated one of history’s most dangerous courts with intelligence and resilience.
As the film continues to play in theaters, it offers audiences a chance to see a different side of King Henry VIII and his final wife, shedding light on a period of history that is often overlooked. “Firebrand” is not just a historical drama; it’s a testament to the lengths actors will go to bring authenticity to their roles and the power of storytelling to illuminate forgotten corners of history.
Source: Deadline, Variety
