Queen James
Passion, Plots and Power in the
Court of Britain's First King
Gareth Russell reveals the story of King James VI and I, his fondness for male favourites and a scandalous murder trial that threatened to blow his monarchy apart.
King James VI of Scotland, the son of Mary, Queen of Scots, became James I of England on the death of his cousin Elizabeth I in 1603, and thereby Britain’s first king. He may not be as well-known or understood as his predecessors Elizabeth and Henry VIII, but his lengthy reign encompassed several significant historical events. He oversaw the creation of the King James Bible, was patron to Shakespeare, stepped up the plantation of Ulster and narrowly escaped being blown up in the Gunpowder Plot.
He was also an avowed pacifist, likely borne from a violent and terrifying upbringing when the child monarch witnessed brutal murders and was the victim of multiple kidnap attempts. This was most pronounced in his refusal to enter the Thirty Years' War, which was kicking off in Europe towards the end of his reign. His pacifism was almost certainly a factor in him being dubbed ‘Queen James’, as his determination not to spend a fortune sending men to Europe brought criticism from many of his more bullish advisors.
But his predisposition to avoid conflict was not the only reason for the epithet. In court circles, James was well known for having his favourites; a succession of young, good-looking men, who were welcomed into his inner sanctum as close friends, political advisors and, in many cases, bedfellows. These favoured associates would typically survive for a few years before James would move on to a newer, younger model.
Gareth Russell, the author of Queen James: The Life and Loves of Britain’s First King, tells James’ story, focusing on a sensational murder trial that threatened to shake the monarchy to its core.
At the heart of the film are readings of James’s letters, writings and speeches, beautifully delivered by the Scottish actor James McArdle.
Praise for Queen James
Passion, Plots and Power in the
Court of Britain's First King
“Gareth Russell’s first-rate documentary”—The Sunday Times
“Unmissable”— Heat
“On to this fertile terrain strides Gareth Russell, confidently transferring his book Queen James to the screen. This is a perspicuous account, gossipy but not prurient, sharpened by modern sensibilities without erasing the mores of the 17th century. Russell, tart when warranted and tenderly empathic when that’s preferable, glints with the knowledge that he has a fabulous story to tell you. …Russell definitely has the gift, his descriptions of Hampton Court as “the world’s most exclusive nightclub” and the masque, the palace entertainment James liked best, as “a cross between a Broadway musical and a party election broadcast” being two of many occasions where the presenter amuses as he informs. In his hands, James – brittle, hot-blooded, wordy, joyful James – comes newly alive.”—The Guardian