Queen James Review: A Fabulous Documentary on King James I's Male Lovers

The Fascinating Story of King James I's Male Lovers

The documentary series 'Queen James' sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of King James I's life: his relationships with men. Despite being nicknamed 'Queen James' by his detractors, the king's romances were largely suppressed by Victorian historians.

Gareth Russell's Insightful Narrative

Gareth Russell, author of the book 'Queen James: The Life and Loves of Britain's First King,' brings his expertise to the screen, offering a gossipy yet not prurient account of the king's life. Russell's narrative is sharpened by modern sensibilities without erasing the mores of the 17th century.

The Key Players: Robert Carr, Sir Thomas Overbury, and George Villiers

• Robert Carr, Earl of Somerset, who charmed the king after breaking his leg in a jousting match.
• Sir Thomas Overbury, Carr's secretary and the political brain behind his rise to power.
• George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, who replaced Carr in the royal bedchamber.

Unpacking the Complexities of King James's Personality

Russell explores the king's personality, from his numerous children with his wife, Anne of Denmark, to his moral treatise identifying 'sodomy' as an unforgivable crime. The documentary also examines how James's troubled upbringing and unconventional education shaped his reign.

The Performance: James McArdle as King James

James McArdle's performance as King James is noteworthy, bringing intensity and vulnerability to the role. His delivery of the king's letters is particularly effective, conveying the pain and ecstasy that reveal the king's true character.