A Man for All Seasons
UK (1966): Drama
Adapted by Robert Bolt and Constance Willis from Bolt's hit stage play, this film stars Paul Scofield, triumphantly repeating his stage role as Sir Thomas More. The crux of the film is the staunchly Catholic More's refusal to acknowledge King Henry VIII's (Robert Shaw) break from the church to divorce his first wife and marry Anne Boleyn (an unbilled Vanessa Redgrave). Sir Thomas willingly goes to the chopping block rather than sacrifice his ideals. Director Fred Zinnemann retains the play's verbosity without sacrificing the film's strong sense of visuals. The impeccably chosen cast includes Wendy Hiller as Sir Thomas' likably contentious wife Alice, John Hurt as the deceitful Richard Rich (More's put-downs of this despicable character provide some of the film's biggest laughs), Orson Welles as a dour Cardinal Wolsey (Welles used an exact duplicate of Wolsey's official seal, as well as authentic sheepskin and a quill pen), Leo McKern as the ambitious Thomas Cromwell, and Susannah York as More's daughter Margaret. The "Common Man," an important bridging-the-scenes character in the original play, is removed from the film version, which does just fine without him. (Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide)
8 nominations, 6 Awards
· Best Picture 1966: Fred Zinnemann - Producer (Highland, Columbia)
· Actor 1966: Paul Scofield
· Directing 1966: Fred Zinnemann
· Writing (Best Screenplay based on material from another medium) 1966: Robert Bolt
· Cinematography (Color) 1966: Ted Moore
· Costume Design (Color) 1966: Elizabeth Haffenden, Joan Bridge
· Supporting Actor 1966: Robert Shaw
· Supporting Actress 1966: Wendy Hiller