‘Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light’ Is a Seamless — but Darker — Continuation of the PBS Series

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After a triumphant return to the small screen following his Oscar win for “Conclave,” creator Peter Straughan delves back into the world of PBS Masterpiece with the second season of “Wolf Hall.” This new installment, titled “Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light,” is based on the final book in Hilary Mantel’s celebrated trilogy. The original series, which garnered widespread acclaim for its adaptation of the first two novels, “Wolf Hall” and “Bring Up the Bodies,” followed King Henry VIII (Damian Lewis) as he severed ties with the Catholic Church and married Anne Boleyn (Claire Foy). It also highlighted the meteoric rise of Thomas Cromwell (Mark Rylance), who would later become the king’s chief advisor. “The Wolf and the Light,” named for the final novel in the trilogy, explores Cromwell’s ascension to Lord Privy Seal and his final years. Richly acted and steeped in the atmosphere and elegance of 16th-century England, this season may not capture the same pulse-pounding energy as its predecessor. However, it offers captivating revelations and delves deeply into the introspective journey of a man who senses his time growing short.

In late 2024, the British television series “Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light” premieres, following the events that unfold after Anne Boleyn’s short-lived reign as queen. With Anne beheaded, King Henry (played by Damian Lewis) prepares to wed his third wife, Jane Seymour (portrayed by Kate Phillips), a pious and soft-spoken woman. However, the kingdom is far from peaceful; unrest stirs among the citizens due to the king’s religious schism with the Pope, and Henry has grown increasingly unpredictable.

Cromwell finds himself working tirelessly to secure the line of succession, navigating the manipulations of the ambitious Pole family, and arranging two more marriages for the king. Despite his best efforts to stay one step ahead of the monarch, Cromwell’s carefully constructed facade begins to show cracks.

In essence, though primarily shown through his actions, Cromwell appears drained. He’s tormented by dreams and nightmares featuring Anne and his former mentor, Cardinal Wolsey (Jonathan Pryce), who was put to death by King Henry’s command in the initial season. Despite achieving power and wealth, Cromwell is frequently reminded of his humble beginnings as a blacksmith’s son, feeling like nothing more than a pet dog tasked with carrying out the king’s orders.

In Episode 2, titled “Obedience,” Cromwell goes to see Dorothea (played by Hannah Khalique-Brown), Wosley’s illegitimate daughter, in an attempt to alleviate his own guilt. However, her cold reception leaves him shattered, causing him to reevaluate his role in the king’s actions and how far he has deviated from his personal principles. Although the absence of Foy as Anne Boleyn is felt, this period of the Tudor court still brims with drama. It may lack the overt excitement of before, but it maintains a more subtle, ominous atmosphere. Throughout the series, Rylance delivers a compelling and intriguing performance, leaving viewers captivated as they watch him grapple with the enigmas leading to his current predicament.

Despite some slow-paced and winding sequences, repetitions, and a couple of cast changes (Charlie Row replacing Tom Holland as Cromwell’s son, Gregory), the series “Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light” flows effortlessly. Straughan reunited with director Peter Kosminsky, who once again directs all six episodes of the show. The setting, mood, and storyline are so skillfully combined that it’s hard to believe ten years have passed since the previous seasons. Scenes from “Wolf Hall” are interspersed throughout the episodes as reminders for the audience and Cromwell, who overconfidently believes he has control over King Henry’s temperament and can maintain his favor.

Furthermore, Rylance and Lewis deliver remarkable performances. As King Henry grows more troubled by Cromwell, Rylance skillfully shows a character coming to terms with his inevitable destiny. In this season, King Henry appears less friendly, revealing his narcissism and struggle to accept his decline. With a knack for brutality, Lewis convincingly plays a man who despises those he considers inferior.

King Henry VIII’s rule is widely recognized, if not deeply studied, by many. However, Straughan chooses to focus on Cromwell, a figure who often goes unnoticed in history. This shift provides a more expansive view of the environment surrounding King Henry, a world that flourished and fell under his command. People experienced rapid elevation and equally swift downfall, as they were either praised or ruthlessly dismissed at a moment’s notice. It is essential to remember that while men may make kings, they also bestow upon them the power to destroy.

The series ‘Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light’ will debut on PBS Masterpiece on March 23rd, with fresh installments airing every Sunday thereafter.

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2025-03-23 17:46