The Other Boleyn Girl: A Royal Rollercoaster

So there I was, curled up with a bucket of popcorn the size of Småland, diving into “The Other Boleyn Girl.” Directed by Justin Chadwick and featuring an all-star cast with Natalie Portman, Scarlett Johansson, and Eric Bana, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I mean, could they actually pull off these iconic historical roles?

First off, let me say the costumes in this film deserve a round of applause. You half expect Gustav Vasa to pop into the frame at any moment. The lush fabrics, even though I’m no fashionista, were like eye candy. But I must admit, the plot twists felt like I’d taken a wrong turn on Södermalm—confusing and a tad crowded at times.

Johansson and Portman, playing the Boleyn sisters, deliver performances that range from touching to downright dramatic. It’s like watching a Swedish melodrama but with more English gardens. There’s this scene where Mary (Johansson) looks heartbroken over a love she can never have, and I was instantly reminded of that one summer flirt I had down in Skåne – unrequited and complicated. You know the ones.

Eric Bana as Henry VIII—well, let’s just say he captured the king’s charm and, err… other tendencies, in a unique way. He’s brooding and intense, kinda like a Midsommar night without the sun. But with all these acting heavyweights, sometimes I felt lost about who I should really care about. Too many cooks in the royal kitchen? Perhaps.

If you’re into historical dramas with a side of family scandal that rivals any Christmas in Dalarna, give this film a whirl. Though maybe keep a history book close by—you might need it for reference!

Check the trailer below