Other Boleyn Girl, The
Writers: Peter Morgan, Philippa Gregory
THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL
Written by
Peter Morgan
Based on the novel by
Philippa Gregory
FEBRUARY 2006
T
EXT. FIELD - DAY
1 1
We're moving through a cornfield. At speed. The sound of
children's laughter. Excited shrieking.
A beautiful young girl, (MARY BOLEYN, 8), our heroine, runs
through the fields, being chased by her younger brother, GEORGE,
and sister, ANNE, (10).
Touchingly, MARY is barely taller than the corn, her head
skimming along the sheaves.
REVERSE ANGLE TO REVEAL: the children are being watched by their
parents, (SIR THOMAS and LADY ELIZABETH BOLEYN).
SIR THOMAS
I received a formal request for marriage
today for Anne.
(a beat)
From the Carey family.
SIR THOMAS indicates to
ANNE; the eldest. Dark-haired.
Intelligent. The obvious leader among the children.
LADY ELIZABETH
But that's wonderful.
SIR THOMAS
I turned it down.
LADY ELIZABETH turns...`What?'
SIR THOMAS
And offered them Mary instead.
SIR THOMAS indicates
MARY, the middle child. Fair-haired.
Pretty. Sweet-natured.
SIR THOMAS
Fnne's too good for William Carey. She
can do (better than a merchant's son.
LADY ELIZABETH
You underestimate Mary.
SIR THOMAS
Not true. I think she's..the kinder of
the two. Quite possibly the fairer.
The CHILDREN, meanwhile, have started a race..
SIR THOMAS
But to get ahead in this world, you need
more than fair looks and a kind heart.
On the field, ANNE wins. She jumps up and down, holding her arms
aloft, as MARY flops to the floor. Vanquished.
2.
SIR THOMAS smiles, `See?' He walks towards ANNE..
SIR THOMAS
(applauding his favourite)
Bravo! Anne!
EXT. BELL TOWER - TEN YEARS LATER
2 2
Bells ring high up in the bell-tower of a country church.
INT. MARY'S BEDROOM - DAY
3 3
MARY, ten years older, and grown into a heavenly bride is in her
room, surrounded by MAIDS and SEAMSTRESSES making final
adjustments to her dress. A knock at the door.
ANNE
May we come in..?
ANNE and GEORGE enter. GEORGE lets out a low whistle..
ANNE
Look at you..! Younger than me. More
beautiful than me. Married before me.
(a beat)
I am eclipsed. I am just the `Other
Boleyn Girl.'
MARY
Hardly.
GEORGE
No, is this it? This is the end of the
unholy trinity?
GEORGE extends her arms, wraps them around his two sister. An
intimate moment.
MARY
No, George. Never. I'll be married,
that's all..
(a beat)
Apart from that - it won't change a
thing.
The three of them hug together, tightly..
INT. CHAPEL - DAY
4 4
A packed country church. The PRIEST officiates in Latin. The air
is thick with incense. And winter cold..
3.
The entire BOLEYN FAMILY is assembled on one side. FATHER,
MOTHER, the DUKE and DUCHESS of NORFOLK, brother GEORGE, and
finally ANNE..
PRIEST
Confirma hoc, Deus, quod operatus es in
nobis..
The PRIEST sprinkles the ring with holy water. WILLIAM CAREY,
(35), puts it on MARY's finger.
few rows back, a young NOBLEMAN stares at ANNE. Looks at her
across the church. Obviously attracted. ANNE notices.
INT. BOLEYN HOME - NIGHT
5 5
The party afterwards. MUSICIANS play. The bride and groom,
(WILLIAM and MARY), are dancing, surrounded by WELL-WISHERS and
other GUESTS..
WILLIAM
Are you happy?
MARY
Very.
WILLIAM
You don't secretly wish you'd married
someone grander? With a title?
MARY
No. I want a husband who loves me. And
who thinks it first thing every morning.
And last thing at night.
WILLIAM
Then you've found the right man.
IN ANOTHER CORNER:
ANNE is dancing with her brother GEORGE. She looks up to see the
NOBLEMAN who was staring at her across the church..
ANNE
Who is that? He was staring at me in
church?
GEORGE
That's Henry Percy. Heir to the Duke of
Northumberland. Richest landowner in
England.
ANNE's eyes widen in interest, "Really?"
(CONTINUED)
4.
GEORGE
But don't get your hopes up. He is
already betrothed.
GEORGE indicates a tall, haughty-looking FIANCEE beside PERCY..
ANNE
Betrothed is not married, brother
George. A lot can happen before you
reach the altar.
ANNE stares over at HENRY PERCY. Who stares back.
IN ANOTHER CORNER:
6 6
he DUKE OF NORFOLK, the most powerful nobleman in the room, and
close personal friend of the KING's walks with his growling DOGS
to where SIR THOMAS BOLEYN and LADY ELIZABETH are sitting. SIR
THOMAS gets to his feet..
SIR THOMAS
Thomas..
he DUKE ignores THOMAS, and goes instead to his sister, (LADY
ELIZABETH), and kisses her..
NORFOLK
I think I have managed to persuade the
King to come and stay with you on
progress. A week-end's hunting in late
summer.
SIR THOMAS
But that's wonderful! Thank you, thank
you so much..
(he turns to ELIZABETH)
Did you hear that, Elizabeth?
LADY ELIZABETH
(hates the idea)
Yes.
SIR THOMAS
Finally we can present George, and with
luck, get him a position at court.
LADY ELIZABETH excuses herself, and leaves..
NORFOLK
These are difficult times. I have it on
good authority that the Queen no longer
bleeds - yet the matter of a male heir
is still not resolved.
a beat)
It cannot be long before the King is
forced to look outside the marriage.
(CONTINUED)
5.
SIR THOMAS
What? And make a bastard King of
England?
NORFOLK
A legitimized bastard. What choice does
he have?
(a beat)
Obviously, I've given it thought, and
wondered which Howard girl I could put
under his nose. Imagine the influence
that would give us. To be blood family
of the next King of England. Equally,
imagine if another family were to
achieve the same?
NORFOLK indicates SIR JOHN SEYMOUR in the corner, and his two
loathsome, ambitious sons EDWARD and THOMAS..
SIR THOMAS
What about Anne?
SIR THOMAS turns, and indicates ANNE across the crowds, who's
dancing with GEORGE...
SIR THOMAS
I realise as a `Boleyn' she is not
officially a `Howard', but as your
sister's daughter..
NORFOLK
But she's your eldest, Thomas. Your
first born. And your favourite. Wouldn't
you prefer her to have a nice,
uncomplicated, respectable marriage?
Like Mary?
SIR THOMAS
If Anne were an uncomplicated,
respectable girl like Mary, then I'd say
`yes'. But she's not.
SIR THOMAS looks out at ANNE..
SIR THOMAS
She's anything but.
INT. BOLEYN CASTLE - DAY
7 7
SIR THOMAS and LADY ELIZABETH stand in a corner, watching the
party continue. ELIZABETH's face darkens..
ADY ELIZABETH
don't like it. It would cost a fortune
to make our house fit for a royal visit.
Money we don't have.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
6.
And what if theDY ELIZABETH(cont'd)
LA king doesn't like her?
Or if she sleeps with him but gives him
a girl?
SIR THOMAS
And what if you were to look on the
bright side? Just once?
An ominous clap of thunder outside..
SIR THOMAS
Risk nothing, you gain nothing.
ADY ELIZABETH stares at her husband..
LADY ELIZABETH
hen was it that people stopped thinking
of ambition as a sin, and started
thinking of it as a virtue?
SIR THOMAS
Easy for you to say. You've had power
and wealth all your life.
LADY ELIZABETH
Until I married you, Thomas. And I was
happy to give it up.
LADY ELIZABETH turns, and walks back inside.
INT. CORRIDOR - NIGHT
8 8
ANNE knocks on the door of her father's study. She waits.
Presently, the door opens. We see SIR THOMAS inside..
ANNE
You asked to see me father?
SIR THOMAS
Yes. Come in.
SIR THOMAS closes the door.
INT. HEVER CASTLE - NIGHT
9 9
MARY is in a bathroom. Being prepared by ANNE for her wedding
night. ANNE brushes her sister's hair. Rubs oil in her skin.
MARY
o - the King himself is coming to
Hever. I'm so happy for George.
ANNE
Yes. But Father took me aside. It seems
he has ambitions for me, too.
(a beat)
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
1
7.
He thinks I'm ANNE(coage dnow...and of not
of an nt' )
unpleasing appearance...
MARY
What? What are you saying..?
ANNE
It's known the King has a wandering eye.
Imagine...if he were to like me?
MARY
But...you could never be more than his
mistress. And that's no substitute for a
husband.
ANNE
But as the King's mistress the least I'd
get after he finished with me would be
an Earl. And if I fell pregnant? And
gave him what his wife has failed to?
a beat)
Quite apart from the money, it'd be a
Duke at least.
MARY
But what about your happiness? Your
future?
ANNE shrugs, smiles..
ANNE
I could be a happy Duchess.
INT. BEDROOOM - NIGHT
0 10
MARY and ANNE enter the bedroom. A sea of candles. MARY stares
at the bed. A child. Suddenly terrified.
ANNE
Are you nervous?
MARY
A little.
ANNE
You'll tell me everything in the
morning?
MARY
I promise.
ANNE
No details spared?
The two SISTERS hug tightly. Visibly emotional.
The door opens, and WILLIAM CAREY appears in the doorway. ANNE
curtseys, gives MARY a last `Good luck' kiss, then goes.
MARY stares at her husband.
MARY
Hold me a moment?
WILLIAM CAREY envelops MARY with his arms..
MARY (cont'd)
I'm so lucky to have a man who is
content with what he has.
MARY looks at him..
MARY (cont'd)
You are, aren't you?
WILLIAM CAREY smiles, looks at his gorgeous bride..
WILLIAM
I am the luckiest man in the world.
WILLIAM reaches for the wine..
WILLIAM (cont'd)
Drink?
MARY shakes her head. But WILLIAM tenderly insists..
WILLIAM (cont'd)
You should. It will hurt less.
MARY nervously drinks..
WILLIAM (cont'd)
Lie back.
MARY lies down. Then she lifts up her nightdress. WILLIAM pulls
down his trousers.
MARY extends her hands. Inviting him to join her. WILLIAM slowly
lowers himself on top of her. He enters her.
MARY smiles, in anticipation of pleasure. A side to her one
might not have imagined.
But one or two strokes later, and WILLIAM's knuckles whiten, his
face reddens, then he cries out, and slumps on top of her.
MARY looks up. Surely that wasn't it?
WILLIAM (cont'd)
Thank you.
(CONTINUED)
9.
WILLIAM rolls over. MARY stares. Soon WILLIAM snores
contentedly. MARY is wide awake. Confused.
aybe this is how it's meant to be.
FADE TO BLACK:
EXT. ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE - DAY
11 11
The thunder of horses' hooves. A huge cloud of dust.
The Royal Standard flutters in the wind. Beneath it, a SOLDIER
in the KING's uniform, riding hard, dirt kicking up in his wake.
The SOLDIER is flanked by a dozen other of the KING's SOLDIERS,
who lead a coloumn of fifty or more RIDERS..
It's like an army. A legion riding into battle. But it's not,
This is just the KING OF ENGLAND going away for the week-end.
Behind the advance party, is the KING himself, (30's), handsome,
in his prime, surrounded by a dozen or so of his closest
COURTIERS, (among them the DUKE of NORFOLK), a grand, tough,
intimidating lot.
Behind them, comes the KING's CONFESSOR, a Priest with a large
ornate crucifix, a small library of religious books..
Then, in a riot of colour, come the MUSICIANS, the FOOL and the
PLAYERS, led by the MASTER of the REVELS.
Behind them, come the SQUIRES and PAGES, carrying the King's
weapons, his jousting kit, his swords, his armour, his lance,
etc.
Then come the animals: FALCONS, in cages, and the HUNTING
HOUNDS, beagles and pinchers, barking in excitement, and an
assortment of FRESH HORSES for travelling, and hunting.
And finally, bringing up the rear, another unit of ARMED GUARDS,
and a second STANDARD BEARER..
1
EXT. HEVER - DAY
2 12
The BOLEYN family page, (WILLIAM STAFFORD), is perched on a
hill. Keeping watch. Staring into the distance..
Presently, he sees clouds of dust and the sound of thunder
approaching. His expression changes...
EXT. HEVER - ESTATE - DAY
13 13
Pandemonium breaks out among STAFF and FAMILY MEMBERS as
STAFFORD calls out, "The King!"
10.
INT. HEVER - DAY
14 14
ANNE is being dressed by MAIDS. Hearing the commotion outside,
she rushes over to the window to see the approaching RIDERS.
ANNE looks out of the window. Scans the approaching RIDERS until
she finds the KING..
ANNE
There he is!
The young HENRY TUDOR is a dazzling, magnetic, intensely
glamorous and handsome figure. A total contrast from the
bloated, bearded figure of his later years.
ANNE
You think he will like me?
MARY
Of course, sister. How could he not?
ANNE turns to face MARY. The two SISTERS embrace tightly.
EXT. HEVER - DAY
15 15
The entire BOLEYN FAMILY is nervously assembled outside the
house, (which we notice has been transformed at great cost. Huge
marquees in the gardens. Fountains. Additional staff. Smart
uniforms. New extensions to the stables and kitchens).
MARY is discreetly hidden, among the CROWDS. ANNE is pride of
place. Visibly nervous. SIR THOMAS and LADY ELIZABETH are beside
her. The proud PARENTS.
Everyone bows deeply in deference as the King arrives.
SIR THOMAS
Your Majesty, you are most welcome.
The King dismounts athletically. His DOGS are unleashed, bark
excitedly..
HENRY
Sir Thomas.
kisses hand)
Lady Elizabeth..
A SERVANT in stiff, new uniform, with trembling hands, brings
wine on a tray. HENRY takes a glass..
SIR THOMAS
May I present my son, George.
GEORGE, visibly nervous, bows deeply from the neck. But HENRY's
attention has been caught by a beautiful woman behind GEORGE..
(CONTINUED)
11.
HENRY
(while staring at MARY)
Your Uncle tells me I should have you at
court. Should I?
GEORGE
It would be a great honour, Sir.
MARY dutifully, modestly averts her eyes..
SIR THOMAS
And our daughter, Anne.
ENRY turns to see ANNE.
ENRY
No one said anything of a daughter.
ANNE curtseys deeply...
HENRY
Had we known, we might have come sooner.
ANNE
Your Majesty..
SIR THOMAS
Perhaps you'll allow Anne to show you
around our modest house?
HENRY
A pleasure.
ANNE offers HENRY her hand. He takes it, then leads ANNE away.
MARY shoots ANNE a look, `Good luck'.
EXT/INT. HEVER - DAY
16 16
ANNE leads the KING through the house. She is followed at a
distance by SIR THOMAS BOLEYN. And watched by MARY and GEORGE
from a gallery above..
ANNE
Here is the library.
HENRY
Charming.
ANNE
And through here, the observatory..
HENRY
Lovely..
HENRY looks up, his eye having been caught by something..
(CONTINUED)
(
H
(
A
12.
HENRY
What's that?
HENRY points at an emblem above a doorway..
ANNE
falcon, your Grace.
HENRY
I can see that. But what's it doing
there? More to the point..
(turns 360)
..not just there, but in every corner in
the house?
ANNE
I have no idea. Ask my father.
a beat)
Perhaps because falcons are vaguely
associative with field sports - field
sports with aristocracy - and in the
absence of a genuine coat of arms..
(shrugs)
...a man with ambition will do the
strangest things.
HENRY is delighted by ANNE's candour..
ENRY
That's a sharp tongue you have.
a beat)
I wonder what it might say about me
behind my back?
ANNE
Oh, his Majesty has nothing to fear from
me. Unless he fears an excess of
compliments.
HENRY smiles, visibly charmed..
HENRY
Really? And what would they be..?
WATCHING FROM ABOVE, MARY smiles to herself, "Well done, Anne",
as HENRY and ANNE continue down a corridor..
INT. BOLEYN HOUSE - EVENING
17 17
The entire BOLEYN FAMILY is assembled, frantically changing ANNE
from her day attire to her finest evening clothes. SIR THOMAS
watches..
(CONTINUED)
K
M
13.
SIR THOMAS
Bravo, Anne! The King was quite smitten!
Told me so himself. And has requested
you sit beside him at dinner.
SIR THOMAS adjusts her hair..
SIR THOMAS
My girl. My dear, remarkable girl. I
knew you would up to the task.
MARY watches. A momentary stab of jealousy at FATHER's
attention. But as ANNE looks over at MARY for support..
MARY smiles. Shakes herself out of it. It's her sister. What was
she thinking?
INT. BOLEYN HOME - NIGHT
18 18
MUSIC is being played. Everyone is dressed in their finest, a
packed banquet hall. MUSICIANS come to a climax, loud and
enthusiastic applause from everyone. HENRY gets to his feet..
HENRY
Well played! And, may I say..
(a modest smile)
..an excellent choice of music too!
nowing smiles from the COURTIERS, SIR THOMAS and LADY
ELIZABETH, the DUKE of NORFOLK, etc..
HENRY
Sir Thomas, Lady Elizabeth, dear Anne.
Your health.
H
ENRY raises his glass. Cheers and applause from the COURTIERS.
A beaming SIR THOMAS raises his glass.
CUT TO:
LATER: dinner is served. Everyone is eating. HENRY and several
close COURTIERS are engaged in debate..
HENRY
..I had it from the lips of the Spanish
ambassador himself. That our musicians
are the envy of all Europe.
BRANDON
..then he was flattering you, your
Grace.
HENRY
Our Universities and philosophers, too.
(CONTINUED)
H
(
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14.
BRANDON
...another lie. That honour would have
to go to the Germans.
HENRY
What of our painters, then?
RANDON
Years behind their Italian counterparts.
The truth is far from leading the world,
we're a provincial outpost, lagging far
behind.
HENRY
What? Is no one proud to be English?
(turns to ANNE)
Anne? What say you?
ANNE gulps. The clanking of cutlery. All eyes on her.
ANNE
Me, my Lord?
clears throat)
I know little of such matters, but I've
not heard mention of our armies.
Undefeated, I believe, in a generation.
ENRY
Well said.
ANNE
Or our navy? The finest in the world.
HENRY
It's true.
ANNE
The universities in Spain and the
philosophers in Germany may be strong,
but are they really the equal of Oxford
and Thomas More?
HENRY
Never!
ANNE
I doubt there is a country that is
fairer in Government, or better
protected by nature from her enemies,
whose people are happier or more
prosperous..
HENRY
She's right, by God! She's right!
HENRY is delighted. SIR THOMAS stares proudly across the room at
ANNE. Who's hand, we notice, is shaking.
(CONTINUED)
A
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15.
Her heart pounding in her chest.
INT. STAIRCASE - BOLEYN HOUSE - NIGHT
19 19
SIR THOMAS stops ANNE on her way upstairs.
SIR THOMAS
You did well tonight. Very well. Quite
enough to be invited to court, I am sure
of it.
SIR THOMAS kisses ANNE's forehead..
SIR THOMAS
Now go to bed. Get a good night's sleep.
Because there's still the hunt tomorrow.
a beat)
You must excel at that.
SIR THOMAS watches ANNE go. Admiring her. Then he turns to see
his wife, ELIZABETH. She turns away in disgust.
INT. GIRLS' BEDROOM - NIGHT
20 20
MARY and ANNE lie together. In spoons position. ANNE is fast
asleep. MARY strokes her sister's hair. Eyes open.
wo vulnerable, young children.
21 21
EXT. HEVER CASTLE - STABLE YARD - DAY
The following morning..
Thirty or more RIDERS, STABLE-BOYS and HORSES are gathered. To
one side, a deafening pack of DEER-HOUNDS, (wire-haired
Lurchers), barking frantically.
t's a scene of great activity, excitement, and anticipation.
The MASTER OF THE HORSE helps HENRY mount his steed - the
biggest and most glamorous stallion of all, with wonderful,
ornate saddlery.
number of OTHER LADIES are also going hunting, and we notice
they ride pillion, (ie), riding on the same horse as their MEN,
sitting behind them, holding onto them..
F
inally, ANNE comes out. The KING turns..
HENRY
Good morning, Anne.
ANNE curtseys deeply..
(CONTINUED)
H
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16.
ANNE
Good morning, your Grace.
HENRY
ho will you be riding with?
It's clearly an invitation. He indicates there is room for ANNE
on the back of his saddle. But ANNE fails to read the signal.
ANNE
On my own your Grace.
HENRY
Your own..?
A STABLE-BOY leads out her horse.
ANNE
They have invented a new saddle which
allows ladies to ride on their own.
ANNE skilfully mounts the horse, and sits upright..
HENRY
ut with no man to hold onto? How will
you stay on the horse?
ANNE
Why? The same way you hold onto yours,
your Grace.
A flicker behind HENRY's eyes. It's the first wrong move ANNE
has made.
HENRY
We'll see.
ENRY yanks the reins on his horse..
HENRY
Let's away!
ANNE shoots a look at MARY. Then follows.
EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY
22 22
The thunder of hooves..
WILLIAM STAFFORD leads the way out with a pack of some forty or
fifty hounds. It's a stirring sight. Following the hounds, come
thirty or forty RIDERS, led by the KING himself.
HENRY
(kicking his horse)
Hah!
(CONTINUED)
R
T
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17.
Up ahead, the HOUNDS start to bark. Their pace increases.
They've got a scent. The BUGLER blows his horn..
The DOGS begin to increase their pace. The RIDERS urge their
horses to gallop. The LADIES hold tight to their MEN..
2
EXT. FIELDS - DAY
3 23
Up ahead, a STAG, wide-eyed, innocent, lifts it's head..
The sound of the hunting bugle and the roar of approaching
footsteps, like thunder.
The STAG twitches in fear, then bolts off towards the forest.
EXT. FIELDS - DAY
24 24
The DOGS and RIDERS roar across fields. The hounds snarl, almost
delirious with primal agitation..
Among the RIDERS, the more advanced HORSEMEN have already opened
up a clear lead on their weaker counterparts..
n the advanced group, are HENRY, several COURTIERS, his GUARDS
and, of course, ANNE..
They jump over a hedge. One of HENRY's COURTIERS catches the
hedge and falls. HENRY smiles, then turns to see..
ANNE comfortably jumping the hedge herself. HENRY's smile fades.
He urges his horse to greater speed..
HENRY
(kicking his horse)
Hah..!
EXT. FIELDS - DAY
25 25
The terrified DEER bolts into safety of the forest. The barking
HOUNDS, locked into the scent, follow.
he RIDERS see this, and some pull up.
IDER
We've lost him. He's in the forest.
Galloping through trees and thick forest is not for the
fainthearted. But HENRY charges past, kicking up dirt..
HENRY
Then we must follow.
H
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18.
INT. FOREST - DAY
26 26
HENRY weaves skilfully through low-hanging branches. He looks
over his shoulder, ANNE follows, close behind..
Sharp branches tear at HENRY's face. Some draw blood. Behind
him, several other COURTIERS suffer lashes from the branches,
and pull up. But not ANNE. She kicks her horse harder. Seemingly
impervious to the whipping branches..
ANNE
Hah!
Ahead, the DEER darts and weaves. The HOUNDS give chase.
EXT. FOREST - RAVINE - DAY
7 27
alf a mile ahead..
A steep ravine, with a sheer drop of twenty-five feet deep. At
the bottom, a brook with dangerous rocks, then another sheer
climb of twenty-five feet the other side.
The DEER arrives, looks, then scampers down the ravine, pursued
by the HOUNDS.
he remaining RIDERS arrive. They see the DEER scramble up the
other side, followed by the DOGS, slipping in the mud, and
struggling with the brook.
everal DOGS fall. Yelping in fright and pain as they lose
footing and fall on the rocks. The KING pulls up his horse..
HENRY raises his hat, and salutes the DEER.
ENRY
he King of England defeated by a humble
fawn.
The COURTIERS laugh, then they turn their horses around and head
off. ANNE stares. It's a clear opportunity to impress. She looks
down at the rocks. A long stare, then..
ANNE
(suddenly kicking horse)
Hah!
The COURTIERS gasp in disbelief as ANNE lurches forward, and
leaps into space, heading fearlessly down the sheer ravine.
orse and rider almost tumble down the vertiginous, lethal drop.
But, reaching the bottom, the horse leaps across the brook, then
scrambles up the other side.
(CONTINUED)
A
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19.
She made it! Exhilarated, ANNE turns, breathing hard. The KING
stares at her. The COURTIERS stare at her.
long silence. Nothing but the sound of wind in the trees..
COURTIER
Please, your Majesty. It's not safe.
HENRY turns and stares daggers at the COURTIER, `Silence'. He
stares across the ravine at ANNE. Their eyes meet.
hen he kicks his horse, `Hah!', and lurches forward. He heads
down the sheer ravine. The COURTIERS gasp, rush to the edge of
the ravine to watch. ANNE goes to the edge her side.
ENRY's horse slides perilously down the ravine, then struggles
to clear the brook, and lands heavily in the water.
he KING struggles to keep control, and as the horse tries to
scramble up the bank the other side, it loses it's footing in
T
the mud, it's hooves grasping horrifically at air..
he COURTIERS cry out in horror, ANNE covers her mouth as..
The KING's horse falls backwards, unseating HENRY, sending him
flying, and worst of all, landing on top of him as they fall and
tumble dreadfully down into the brook, and onto the rocks..
Pandemonium breaks out. The sound of shouting voices, cries of
horror, raising the alarm.
ANNE's FACE: what has she done?
INT. HEVER - NIGHT
8 28
HENRY slowly comes to, to find himself staring at a number of
faces. A PHYSICIAN, SIR THOMAS BOLEYN, the DUKE of NORFOLK, one
or two COURTIERS, and finally, ANNE..
PHYSICIAN
It's a miracle, Majesty, you have no
broken bones..
HENRY flinches in agony, tries to move..
SIR THOMAS
My daughter Anne is here. Would like to
apologise.
ENRY
(recoils, his pride hurt)
No! Get her away from me!
ANNE opens her mouth, wants to protest, but is hastily ushered
out of the room.
(CONTINUED)
H
20.
LATER: HENRY's wound is being dressed by MARY.
HENRY
And who are you?
MARY
Mary, your Grace. Anne's younger sister.
HENRY looks her up and down..
HENRY
You've been here all week-end?
MARY
Yes, your Grace.
HENRY
Really? How could I have overlooked you?
MARY
Next to Anne, it's easy to do.
HENRY
Nonsense.
HENRY sits up, takes H better look. Intrigued.
a
ENRY (cont'd)
Tell me about yourself. You're married?
MARY
Yes, your Grace. To William Carey.
ENRY
From Wolsey's office?
MARY
Yes, your Grace.
HENRY
Then why haven't I seen you at court?
MARY
Because I have persuaded him to spend a
year or two here first. We have a small
manor and some land. Nothing much. But
enough to start a family.
HENRY
A charmed life in the country? Away from
it all?
MARY
Yes.
(CONTINUED)
M
(
(
21.
HENRY
Everything I would have wished for
myself. But then my brother died.
a beat)
And duty called.
HENRY looks at MARY, then..
HENRY
You don't think he'll miss court?
a beat)
A young, ambitious man?
MARY
He says not, your Majesty.
MARY lowers her eyes..
MARY
But, if he ever changed his mind, I
would always support him.
HENRY stares at MARY.
HENRY
Well said.
EXT. HEVER CASTLE - DAY
29 29
Strapped and bandaged, HENRY is helped onto his horse. Beside
him GEORGE BOLEYN is also on a horse, riding off to court for
the first time..
SIR THOMAS and LADY ELIZABETH bow, curtsey farewell..
HENRY
Thank you again, Lady Elizabeth. We'll
take good care of your boy..
(kissing her hand)
And Thomas..
HENRY embraces him, whispers in SIR THOMAS's ear..
HENRY
You'll take care of that matter?
SIR THOMAS
Consider it done, your Majesty.
HENRY shoots a lingering look at MARY, which ANNE notices. Then
the King and his entourage ride off.
MARY waves farewell to GEORGE. ANNE stares. Suspicious.
M
Y
M
(
M
22.
INT. HEVER CASTLE - DAY
30 30
MARY and ANNE are sitting together. Presently the door opens,
and WILLIAM STAFFORD emerges..
STAFFORD
Your Father wishes to see you.
MARY and ANNE get to their feet. STAFFORD raises his hand..
STAFFORD
Just Mary.
MARY shoots ANNE a quizzical look, then goes with STAFFORD.
ANNE's smile fades. A flicker of suspicion. She follows..
INT. SIR THOMAS'S STUDY - DAY
31 31
An intimidating atmosphere. Dogs lie at the feet of the DUKE of
NORFOLK. SIR THOMAS looks up..
NORFOLK
Mary, I don't know what you said or did -
but you obviously made a deep impression
on the King.
exchanges a look with SIR
THOMAS)
And he has requested you come to court
with immediate effect.
MARY's eyes widen in disbelief..'What?'
32 32
INT. CORRIDOR - SAME TIME
ANNE listens at the door. Horrified.
ANNE
What?!?
INT. SIR THOMAS'S STUDY - SAME TIME
33 33
WILLIAM STAFFORD watches from the doorway as the DUKE of
NORFOLK, WILLIAM CAREY and SIR THOMAS smile delightedly, staring
at MARY..
NORFOLK
ou're to pack and leave first thing in
the morning.
MARY shoots a desperate look at her husband..
(CONTINUED)
T
B
23.
NORFOLK
The King himself has secured you a
position in the Queen's household.
MARY
ut I don't want to go to court. Nor
does my husband.
Silence.
SIR THOMAS
ell her.
WILLIAM CAREY clears his throat. Avoids MARY's eyes..
WILLIAM
The King has also offered me a position.
As Gentleman of the Privy Council.
MARY
What?
SIR THOMAS
Y'hear that? Gentleman of the Privy
Council! Attending to the private and
personal needs of his Majesty himself!
That's the inner sanctum!
MARY's shell-shocked, lost for words..
MARY
But what about our future? Here in the
country?
NORFOLK
Put it out of your mind. From now on
your home is at court.
MARY
William, please! Don't you understand
what this means?
MARY stares imploringly..
MARY
They will separate us. Put me in
different accommodation. Where the King
can always...find me.
WILLIAM CAREY averts his eyes..
NORFOLK
Happily your husband understands the
value of such an opportunity.
(a beat)
For us all.
(CONTINUED)
B
W
M
(
24.
MARY
What about Anne? Couldn't she go
instead?
SIR THOMAS's expression darkens. A flicker of pain.
SIR THOMAS
The way that girl behaved this week-end,
she can count herself lucky she still
has a home.
INT. CORRIDOR - SAME TIME
34 34
ANNE'S FACE, outside the door: it's as if a knife had been
plunged into her gut.
She turns and runs down the corridor..
35 35
INT. WILLIAM CAREY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
WILLIAM and MARY lie in bed. MARY is equally wretched. Tears are
M
also running down her cheeks. She stares at her husband..
MARY
How could he DO this to me? My own
father.
a beat)
What if we just refused?
WILLIAM
We would be cut off. He made that clear.
MARY
But would that be so bad?
MARY stares at him..
MARY
Position means nothing to me. Nor
wealth. We could find somewhere. A small
farm. Away from everything.
WILLIAM
You say that now - but when you're
older? And our children are grown up?
(comforting her)
This won't last long. A year. Maybe two.
And at the end of that - we'll we have
everything we want.
(a beat)
It's for our FUTURE.
MARY
ut can't you see? Do this, and we might
not HAVE a future.
A
M
3
25.
EXT. BOLEYN HOME - STABLES - DAY
36 36
MARY is getting ready to leave. She turns a corner and `bang',
walks straight into ANNE. A tense moment. The two SISTERS stare
at one another..
MARY
I'm so sorry..
ANNE
What for? You think I want the King? Or
to be used and abused by him?
(puts on brave smile)
No! You're welcome to him. I have my own
plans, which don't involve becoming a
rag that will one day be discarded.
MARY stares, saddened, `Oh, Anne', but there's no time to talk.
She has to go. ANNE is left. Her eyes blazing.
EXT. PALACE - DAY
7 37
MARY and WILLIAM ride through London streets escorted by
SERVANTS bringing their belongings. They approach Whitehall
Palace. Armed GUARDS slowly open the gates.
MARY's face: as the heavy gates open. She shoots a last look at
the `free' world outside. Then, she rides through the Palace
gates.
`CLANK', the heavy doors shut behind her.
The outside world has been totally sealed off. Faces appear at
palace windows, staring down at the `new arrivals'.
mong them: is HENRY himself. He stares out of the window. Sees
MARY. Then he lets the curtain fall.
INT. COURT - DAY
38 38
KATHERINE of ARAGON, (late-30's), imperious, intimidating,
Spanish. Surrounded by other LADIES IN WAITING, (mostly high-
born, Spanish, and the QUEEN's age). A SERVANT announces..
SERVANT
Mary Carey, Ma'am.
QUEEN KATHERINE looks up..`Who?'
QUEEN KATHERINE
Who?
SERVANT
The new Lady in Waiting.
(CONTINUED)
(
I
M
P M
(
S
26.
QUEEN KATHERINE
Really? But I was not expecting anyone.
ERVANT
Appointed by...his Majesty the King.
QUEEN KATHERINE
By my husband? Really?
The air crackles with tension. It's school bullying.
QUEEN KATHERINE
Well, then she must be some kind of
gift. He must have seen in her some
special talent that would please me.
Tell me. What special talent is it that
you have?
with icy contempt)
Apart from your obvious youth and
beauty?
T
errified, MARY stammers..
MARY
I...I..
QUEEN KATHERINE
oetry, perhaps?
MARY
N-no..
QUEEN KATHERINE
Or dressmaking?
MARY
I..I..
QUEEN KATHERINE
Music! That's it! You compose? Or sing?
MARY
..I'm afraid not. Your Majesty.
QUEEN KATHERINE
Come, you're too modest.
turns to a MUSICIAN)
Signor Vasquez.
The Spanish GUITARIST obliges by starting to play a well-known
tune of the period..
MARY
No..really..I beg you, your Majesty.
(CONTINUED)
M
(
W
27.
QUEEN KATHERINE
(barks, suddenly terrifying)
I command you to SING!!!
MARY flinches. Blushing deeply, her skin glowing with
perspiration and terror, she begins to sing..
Normally she sings well. But her voice now is strangled with
fear. MARY stands rigid, her knuckles whiten, nails digging into
her hands, drawing blood.
Finally, MARY finishes. The room is silent. All eyes on
KATHERINE, who stares coldly. A formidable adversary.
QUEEN KATHERINE
Bravo! A nightingale!
(the cruel satisfaction of
victory)
Welcome at court!
INT. CORRIDORS - WHITEHALL PALACE - AFTERNOON
39 39
MARY walks through the packed corridors of court, her face
burning from the humiliation. The sound of a voice behind her..
WOMAN'S VOICE
ait! Mary! Stop!
But MARY does not hear. She continues walking, distressed, and
distractedly enters..
Finally, she is caught by JANE PARKER, whom we had seen at the
window earlier. Younger, also English, a kindred spirit..
JANE
I know that must have been agony, but
put yourself in her shoes. She knows the
only reason the King has asked you here
is because he desires you. For a wife
that must be very difficult.
a beat)
She's a good woman. Trust me.
JANE smiles. MARY manages a smile..
J
ANE (cont'd)
Jane Parker.
MARY
Mary Carey.
The two girls shake hands.
JANE
You have a brother, don't you? George?
(CONTINUED)
J
28.
MARY
Yes.
JANE
I've seen him a few times at court. And
like him...very well.
(a beat)
But I don't think he has noticed me.
MARY
I can't imagine.
(a beat)
Should I mention you to him?
JANE
Would you?
MARY
Of course. Happily.
ANE PARKER smiles. But as soon as MARY's back is turned, the
smile fades.
EXT. TILTYARD - DAY
40 40
A large dusty yard, where KNIGHTS train for combat, and practise
their fighting skills. MARY is with GEORGE, who is putting on
his armour..
GEORGE
Not noticed her? Jane Parker? Of course
I have. How could I not? She looks like
a goat.
MARY
Well, she likes you, and asked me to
give you this..to remember her by.
MARY hands over a handkerchief..
GEORGE
Ugh. Well say you haven't seen me. Or
that you forgot.
GEORGE hastily gives it back..
GEORGE (cont'd)
There is something about that woman that
makes me feel...
(he shudders)
GEORGE gets to his feet, indicates to his MALE COURTIER friend
that he is coming..
MARY
And our sister? Any word?
(CONTINUED)
H
H
M
A
29.
GEORGE
ANNE? You know she took being upstaged
by you very badly.
MARY
Yes, I know.
GEORGE
And no amount of interventions on my
behalf would make her believe you hadn't
done it intentionally.
MARY
But you KNOW I would never do anything
like that.
GEORGE
I know.
GEORGE finds his helmet, puts it on..
GEORGE (cont'd)
Just give her time. She'll come round.
MARY watches GEORGE go to join the other MALE COURTIERS.
INT. MARY'S ROOM - COURT - DAY
41 41
MARY enters her room, and closes the door. She begins
undressing, taking off her clothes, then catches sight of a DOG
in the shadows. She gasps. It's the KING's dog.
HENRY (O.S.)
Please, don't be alarmed.
ENRY steps out of the shadows..
MARY covers herself in modesty, and falls to her knees in a deep
curtsey of deference. HENRY steps into the light, walks towards
her.. H
ENRY
I wanted to find somewhere we could be
alone so I might say a few words to you
in person.
ENRY turns, looks around the room..
HENRY
I hope your accommodation is
comfortable. I realise it's no
substitute for the life you had in mind
in the country..
(a beat)
But please, give me the opportunity to
try to make you happy here..
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
N
M
(
(
30.
(a beat) NRY(cont'd)
HE
The moment I met you, I realised I..
HENRY tails off as MARY unbuttoning her dress..
HENRY
(tailing off)
What are you..?
MARY's dress comes off her shoulder. The KING's eyes, however,
instead of staring at MARY's beautiful, exposed body, stay
focused on her eyes. An uncomfortable moment..
HENRY
I am sorry.
(delicately putting her
clothes back on MARY)
You obviously misunderstand me.
HENRY bows in respect, then turns, and takes his leave, leaving
MARY standing in the room..
INT. NORFOLK'S STUDY - COURT - NIGHT
42 42
The DUKE of NORFOLK stares in disbelief at MARY. His dogs lie
intimidatingly at his feet.
NORFOLK
What? If all the King wanted was
coition, he could fetch in a woman from
the bath house.
a beat)
What he wants is YOU.
a beat)
To woo you. And be wooed in return.
(a beat)
And could'nt you look just a little
happier? There isn't a girl in the
Kingdom that wouldn't wish to be in your
shoes.
MARY
Your opinion, Uncle.
MARY speaks quietly. Lowers her head..
MARY
Mine is that it's the greatest insult of
all.
ORFOLK
What?
MARY
Asking a whore to have feelings, too.
WE'RE INTO A BRIEF MONTAGE:
F
T
A
T
31.
INT. ROYAL CHAPEL - DAY
43 43
An incense-filled Royal Chapel. The ARCHBISHOP is giving mass,
in Latin, for the Royal Household.
he King sits at the front, on the left. With the men. The
ladies are separated, as is traditional, and sit on the right.
HENRY is lost in prayer. It's not long, however, before he turns
to look at MARY.
EXT. COUNTRY CHAPEL - DAY
44 44
Meanwhile, a remote country parish church. Far away.
local PRIEST arrives. He sees two HORSES tethered to a tree by
the side of the church. He dismounts. Checks no one has followed
him.
hen he enters the church.
4
INT. ROYAL CHAPEL - DAY
5 45
In the Royal chapel: the ARCHBISHOP solemnly performs the
Eucharist, breaking bread and making wine from blood..
But, in full view of all those in the chapel, the KING continues
to stare at MARY.
inally, she looks up. Their eyes meet. MARY blushes, averts her
gaze. But then, for the first time, she reciprocates. And looks
back.
This is witnessed by the QUEEN, and further back, by the DUKE of
NORFOLK and SIR THOMAS BOLEYN.
Everyone is pretending to focus on the MASS. But none of them
can concentrate..
INT. COUNTRY CHURCH - DAY
46 46
In the country church: The PRIEST's eyes become accustomed to
the dark. Everywhere, long shadows, eerie darkness..
PRIEST
Are you there?
Presently, a WOMAN steps into the light. It's ANNE. Dressed in a
shawl.
PRIEST
No one saw you?
(CONTINUED)
P
32.
ANNE
No.
PRIEST
You brought the money.
ANNE hands over a purse of coins. They walk to the altar..
PRIEST
And the groom? Is he here?
Up ahead, the GROOM slowly steps out of the shadows. Now we see
his face. It's HENRY PERCY.
RIEST
Good. Then let us begin.
EXT. ROYAL CHAPEL - DAY
47 47
Back at court: the service ends.
Everyone in the Royal Household filters out of the church. But
it's a very different atmosphere to when they entered..
The extent of HENRY's affection for MARY is now public knowledge
evidenced by..
..the attention SIR THOMAS and NORFOLK now receive from CARDINAL
WOLSEY and THOMAS CROMWELL, and the way in which QUEEN KATHERINE
and her SPANISH LADIES are being neglected.
MARY allows herself a private smile of satisfaction. Surprised
at how good it feels. To be the number 1.
INT. MARY'S ROOM - NIGHT
48 48
MARY lies in bed, in a room covered in flowers. She admires a
beautiful necklace in a box, and a handwritten letter from the
KING. We can see from MARY's face how much she likes it.
Presently, urgent `knock', `knock', at the door. MARY's eyes
widen in excitement. The King?
She hurriedly closes the necklace's box. Tucks the letter away
in a drawer.
She gets out of bed. Anxiously straightens her hair, then goes
to the door, to find..
GEORGE, her brother, who bursts in..
MARY
George? It's the middle of the night.
(CONTINUED)
(
M
S
W
I
33.
GEORGE
t's Anne.
MARY
hat?
GEORGE
he's married Henry Percy!
MARY
(horrified)
What?
GEORGE
In secret. Without telling anyone!
MARY's face falls..
MARY
Oh, no...!
GEORGE
tailing off)
You don't look pleased.
MARY
Why would I be pleased?
GEORGE
It would make her the future Duchess of
Northumberland. Our sister!
MARY
But they'll never allow it, don't you
see? He's already precontracted to Mary
Talbot, and if word of the consummation
gets out her reputation will be ruined..
MARY pulls back her sheets..
MARY
...I have to tell Father. Before it's
too late..
GEORGE
What?
GEORGE watches MARY go to the door..
GEORGE
Mary..! Wait! Come back!
A
34.
INT. SIR THOMAS'S STUDY - BOLEYN HOUSE - LONDON - DAY
49 49
A FAMILY MEETING: ANNE and HENRY PERCY, (the HANDSOME YOUNG
NOBLEMAN from Mary's wedding), stand in front of the DUKE of
NORFOLK and SIR THOMAS BOLEYN and GEORGE..
SIR THOMAS
What were you thinking? The marriage of
a senior noble is a matter of state.
Something only the King can decide..
HENRY PERCY looks down, avoiding eye contact..
NORFOLK
Who knows about this?
ANNE
No one.
NORFOLK
Then that is how it shall remain.
Forever.
ANNE
But you cannot undo what has been done
before God.
(defiant stare)
And consummated too.
`Snap', NORFOLK's quill breaks. SIR THOMAS almost chokes.
GEORGE's eyes widen..
NORFOLK
WHAT?
SIR THOMAS
(struggling to contain his
anger)
There have been improper intimacies,
too?
ANNE
I have lain with my husband. There is
nothing improper about it..
NORFOLK
SILENCE! My God, if you were my daughter
I'd thrash you within an inch of your
life..
ANNE recoils, terrified..
SIR THOMAS
The boy will return to Northumberland -
where he will marry the Talbot girl. As
arranged.
(CONTINUED)
A
(
Y (
N
N
35.
SIR THOMAS gives the signal for WILLIAM STAFFORD to escort PERCY
out.
ORFOLK
As for you. You will go to France and
stay there until you have learned your
lesson.
MARY
What?
ORFOLK
How could you do this to your sister?
You know full well her friendship with
the King is at an extremely delicate
stage. Any scandal or black mark against
Mary's name now could be fatal.
SIR THOMAS dismisses her..
NORFOLK
You will join the court of the French
Queen. And stay there until your father
has forgiven you.
ANNE goes. GEORGE follows..
INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE - DAY
50 50
MARY paces anxiously in the corridor. Presently, ANNE emerges
from the room. Burning with humiliation. Their eyes meet. MARY
is about to speak, but ANNE cuts her off..
ANNE
ou told them, didn't you?
a beat)
How COULD you?
MARY
Because you would never have got away
with it. And it would have ruined your
prospects forever.
(a beat)
Believe me. I did it for your good.
ANNE
Really? For MY good? I'll try to remind
myself of that. While I'm in exile. And
you're here, in the King's bed, and
unchallenged for our father's affection.
a beat)
That it was for MY good. Not yours.
MARY
ANNE, wait..!
(CONTINUED)
M
M
Y
M
M
I
5
36.
ANNE storms out. GEORGE shoots MARY a look, "I'll deal with
this", and runs after ANNE..
OVER THIS: we fade in MUSIC and the sound of laughter..
INT. BALL-ROOM - PALACE - NIGHT
1 51
A grand MASQUE BALL. We're in a spectacular candle-lit ballroom.
MUSICIANS play. Large formations of DANCERS perform elaborately
choreographed moves. Among them we pick out..
SIR THOMAS BOLEYN stalking the party. Ever watchful. On duty.
Vigilant. He is distracted by the sight of...
His son, GEORGE BOLEYN, surrounded by FRANCIS WESTON and his
FRIENDS. GEORGE is clearly in his element. Laughing in delight.
Very fond and intimate with FRANCIS WESTON..
SIR THOMAS looks concerned for the first time.
n another corner, MARY is in costume, but looking forlorn. She
watches proceedings with a blank, distant expression. Presently,
a voice behind her..
MASKED MAN
Why look so glum, Mary?
MARY turns to see a MASKED MAN behind her.
MARY
What reason have I to be happy?
MASKED MAN
ou have two men, the King of England
and I, both fighting for your love.
The MASKED MAN is tall. His voice is quiet, but strong.
MARY
Do I know you?
MASKED MAN
You know me, Mary - but not half as well
as I know you. I know you better than
anyone here. And love you better than
anyone here, too. And if God had made ME
your husband instead of William Carey,
one thing I know..
(a beat)
I would never have let you go.
MARY's smile fades..
MARY
Wait! Who ARE you?
(CONTINUED)
N
B M
M
Y
I
M
M
37.
MARY lunges for the MAN's MASK to try and remove it, but the MAN
retreats into the safety of the shadows. Meanwhile..
All around MARY the crowds part, and a deep voice booms out.
ASKED MAN #2
Ah! Who have we here?!?
MARY turns to see a SECOND MASKED MAN, (unmistakably the KING),
surrounded by COURTIERS.
M
MARY
My name is Kindness.
MASKED MAN #2
wonder, will you be kind to me?
MARY
What is it you desire?
MASKED MAN #2
our love, fair Lady.
MARY
You demand a great deal.
MASKED MAN #2
No more than I would give in return.
MARY notices her FATHER is among the masked COURTIERS. His eyes
giving MARY cues..
MARY
It is easy for a man to declare love
from behind a mask.
ASKED MAN #2
ut if I remove it, you might reject me.
MARY
If your feelings were sincere, I would
never reject you.
MASKED MAN #2
But you do not know who I am? I could be
ugly. Or poor.
MARY
o matter how you looked. Or who you
were.
MASKED MAN #2
Really? Then I shall hold you to your
word. And unmask..!
With a flourish, the KING rips off his mask..
(CONTINUED)
H
M
H
S
38.
MARY
Your Majesty..!
SIR THOMAS urgently nods, `Go on!' MARY theatrically swoons.
Falling into the KING's arms. A gasp among the COURTIERS..
HENRY
he faints! Quick! Take her to my rooms!
Call my physicians..!
SIR THOMAS quickly picks MARY up. He carries her through the
crowds, out of the ball-room..
QUEEN KATHERINE watches from a distance. A flicker of pain.
Then, with great dignity and pride, she turns back to watch the
entertainment..
INT. KING'S APARTMENT - COURT - NIGHT
52 52
`Thump', the doors open, and MARY is carried into the King's
apartments. HENRY fusses, brings water. Opens windows.
ENRY
Go! Leave us! Go!
SIR THOMAS bows to the KING, shoots MARY meaningful look, `Don't
fail me', and retreats. HENRY closes the doors. He and MARY are
left alone.
HENRY makes her comfortable.
MARY
Thank you, your Grace.
HENRY
`Henry', please. The first rule of this
room, is to leave `Your Grace's' and
`Your Majesty's' outside.
ENRY looks up..
HENRY
Is there anything I can bring you?
MARY
No.
HENRY
Nothing to increase your comfort or well-
being?
MARY
You might ask your servants to bring me
some water.
HENRY goes to get water himself..
(CONTINUED)
M
H
H
39.
HENRY
There. There ARE no servants.
MARY's eyes widen. The KING of ENGLAND brings her a drink! MARY
takes a sip of her drink and watches as HENRY goes behind a
screen and begins to remove his costume. His mask.
MARY notices a mirror, and watches in the reflection of the
mirror how HENRY removes the costume and status of KING and
becomes a MAN. Private.
ENRY visibly unwinds, his facial muscles relax. He breathes out
deeply. His face becomes softer. More gentle. Then he puts on a
comfortable robe, and emerges from behind the screen.
HENRY goes over to a pile of cushions, and flops down - and
smiles at MARY.
MARY
So, this is it? This is where the King
of England sleeps?
HENRY
And reads. And writes. And finds a few
moments each day...
(gestures)
...for himself.
HENRY smiles at MARY..
HENRY (cont'd)
You look surprised?
MARY
I am. I suppose it's more..
MARY looks at the bed, the books, the pages of writing on the
desk..
MARY
..simple than I imagined.
ENRY
There's no need for show. I am only ever
here alone.
MARY
And yet you invite me here?
HENRY
Because I trust you.
MARY
You hardly know me.
(CONTINUED)
M
M
(
40.
HENRY
A man in my position develops an
instinct.
a beat)
You would never lie, could never lie to
me.
MARY smiles, admitting he's right.
MARY
No.
HENRY
I also sense...that you might relish an
opportunity to be yourself, too.
MARY
Yes.
HENRY
Well, here you only say what you like,
do what you like.
M
MARY
Very well.
MARY smiles. Stretches out her legs. Relaxes..
MARY
I'd like an apple, please..
(can't believe she's saying
this)
..Henry.
HENRY jumps to his feet, brings MARY an apple. MARY laughs,
`Thank you'. Bites into the apple..
MARY
Now it's your turn.
HENRY
What?
MARY
To say something, or do something you
couldn't outside.
HENRY
There are many things I cannot admit to
in public. Sadness, for example. And
loneliness.
MARY
But when you are loved as much as you
are? How can you be lonely?
(CONTINUED)
S
S
I
H
41.
HENRY
Do you not know what it is to be lonely
in a marriage?
MARY
Yes. I do now.
ENRY
married my brother's widow because my
father ordered it. As a duty. To keep
the alliance with Spain. And she is a
remarkable woman. And wife.
HENRY looks at MARY..
HENRY
But I never looked at her or longed for
her the way I do you.
HENRY reaches out. Their hands meet..
HENRY
Imagine how different it might have
been. For both of us..had we been able
to chose for ourselves..
HENRY leans forward and they kiss. Gently at first. MARY
resisting. Then harder..
ensing this, the KING picks MARY up and leads her to the
canopied bed, and lays her down..
They begin to make love. As radical a contrast to the scene with
WILLIAM CAREY as it is possible to imagine..
MARY's eyes open. She gasps. Her hands grip the sheets..
INT. PALACE - DAYBREAK
53 53
HENRY and MARY, entwined in one another's arms, as the sun
rises...
INT. CORRIDOR - OUTSIDE HENRY'S APARTMENTS - DAY
54 54
Several hours later:
WILLIAM STAFFORD is fast asleep in a window seat in the corridor
outside. Finally, the door opens. And MARY emerges from the
KING's apartment.
TAFFORD
Good morning.
S
TAFFORD jumps to his feet. Waking rapidly..
(CONTINUED)
(
M
42.
STAFFORD
I have orders to bring you to your
father.
MARY stares at STAFFORD. As he straightens his shirt..
MARY
My father..?
a beat)
Well, we'd better not keep him waiting.
STAFFORD turns, leads the way. MARY follows.
INT. NORFOLK'S STUDY - COURT - DAY
55 55
The DUKE of NORFOLK's dogs are eating breakfast out of bowls by
the fire. Slurping hungrily.
The entire family is gathered. SIR THOMAS, LADY ELIZABETH. Also
present is WILLIAM CAREY.
NORFOLK
Well..?
MARY stares at her husband..
NORFOLK
Did he have you?
MARY's eyes burn..
MARY
Yes.
NORFOLK
More than once?
MARY stares daggers..
NORFOLK
You'd better get used to talking about
it. Once you sleep with the king, it's
not a private matter any more.
MARY
Yes. More than once.
WILLIAM CAREY's face: a flicker of pain..
NORFOLK
So he was satisfied?
MARY
I believe so, Uncle.
(CONTINUED)
B
G
43.
NORFOLK
ood. This is where our work begins.
It's one thing to catch the king. Quite
another to keep him.
NORFOLK turns to SIR THOMAS, ignoring MARY as though she were a
piece of livestock..
NORFOLK
I want you to keep her spotless, hair
washed every day. She must read all the
latest books and be able to venture and
defend an interesting opinion. She must
know her music, must be energetic and
entertaining - in company and in bed.
That's how he likes his women. And if
ever she's in any doubt as to how to
conduct herself, or what to do next -
she should simply watch the Queen. That
woman kept him from straying for eleven
years. And the effort almost killed her.
ut SIR THOMAS has not heard. He is distracted. He watches from
a palace window as, in a stableyard down below..
GEORGE and FRANCIS WESTON return from riding together. The sound
of laughter as they dismount, and hand their horses to the
stable-boys..
SIR THOMAS watches as GEORGE and FRANCIS walk back to the palace
together. There's something in their manner, the intimacy
between them..
SIR THOMAS's smile fades.
INT. PALACE - DAY
56 56
`Slap', HENRY spreads out a huge architect's drawing of a
magnificent ship on a table. He sits with SIR THOMAS BOLEYN and
the DUKE of NORFOLK.
HENRY
The biggest warship in the fleet. Thirty-
two guns and two hundred feet long, and
with your permission Thomas..
(We notice SIR THOMAS's
clothes have become more
expensive, grander)
..I'd like to name her after your
daughter. The "Mary Boleyn".
SIR THOMAS looks up in disbelief..
SIR THOMAS
Majesty! I'm...I'm speechless..
(CONTINUED)
O
O
A
N
44.
HENRY
onsense. She's an angel. It's the least
she deserves. And if there's anything
else I can do for YOU, my friend..as an
expression of my gratitude..let me know.
SIR THOMAS's tails off. Thinking..
S
SIR THOMAS
s it happens..there is one thing.
HENRY
Name it.
SIR THOMAS has clearly not stopped thinking about what he saw
between GEORGE and FRANCIS WESTON..
SIR THOMAS
ur son, George. He's of an age now..
HENRY
You want me to make him a match?
SIR THOMAS bows. Deadly serious..
SIR THOMAS
Yes, your Majesty.
HENRY
Do you have anyone in mind?
SIR THOMAS
There is one lady, Sir..
HENRY
Go on..
SIR THOMAS
Who I fear is too high-born for us. And
following the unfortunate matter between
Anne and Henry Percy, I didn't want my
children to overreach themselves again..
HENRY
verreach themselves?
HENRY can't help smiling..
HENRY
One is currently in the King's bed. If
they are good enough for me, I suggest
they're good enough for anyone else.
So..
(gestures)
Who is it?
OVER THIS: we hear GEORGE's distraught voice..
(CONTINUED)
G
S
I
S
S
G
45.
GEORGE (O.S.)
Jane Parker..?
INT. SIR THOMAS'S STUDY - LONDON - DAY
57 57
GEORGE BOLEYN, visibly shocked and distressed, stands in front
of his father.
EORGE
I beg you, Father. No.
SIR THOMAS
She's well connected, her father is
cousin to the King. And there's money,
too.
GEORGE
But must I actually...marry her?
SIR THOMAS's expression changes..
SIR THOMAS
thought you had ambitions for this
family. G
EORGE
I do.
SIR THOMAS
And that you wish to make a contribution
yourself. Not just stand back and watch
your sisters.
EORGE nods..
SIR THOMAS
Then my advice would be to start
behaving like a man. A real man. Do I
make myself clear?
SIR THOMAS walks out. GEORGE stares after him..
GEORGE
(quiet)
Yes, Sir.
INT. BALL-ROOM - PARKER FAMILY CASTLE - NIGHT
58 58
MUSICIANS play. We're at GEORGE's wedding. Attended by the KING
and QUEEN, all the senior LORDS. It's a markedly grander and
posher affair than MARY's earlier wedding, a clear indication of
the BOLEYNS' new, elevated status.
(CONTINUED)
S
S
R
B
46.
A formation dance is in progress. At the centre of it: GEORGE
dances with a radiant, triumphant JANE PARKER. GEORGE's eyes
meet those of FRANCIS WESTON across the room.
y contrast: HENRY dances with MARY. A couple with eyes on for
each other. Locked to one another. Blissfully unaware of and
uninterested in anyone else. Silently counting the minutes
before they can tear off one another's clothes..
EVERSE ANGLE TO REVEAL:
Their intimacy is witnessed by WILLIAM CAREY, who we notice is
now drinking heavily, drowning his jealous sorrows..
ELSEWHERE:
SIR THOMAS BOLEYN is dancing with his wife, LADY ELIZABETH. He
hisses through a fixed smile..
SIR THOMAS
For God's sake, it's the wedding of our
youngest child attended by the King of
England and the greatest Lords in the
Land. Would a smile be too much to ask?
LADY ELIZABETH
What's to smile about? I'm a mother with
one child on his wedding day looking
like he's been condemned to death.
he indicates GEORGE, who dances with JANE PARKER..
LADY ELIZABETH
Another banished abroad, in disgrace.
And a third whoring in public with an
adulterer.
SIR THOMAS
For the moment she's happy.
SIR THOMAS watches MARY who dances with the KING..
LADY ELIZABETH
But will she be happy when he leaves
her? Because you know that's how it will
end.
SIR THOMAS
Only God knows how anything will end.
LADY ELIZABETH
God..? He turned his back on all this a
long time ago.
SIR THOMAS stares coldly at his wife. He applauds as the dance
comes to an end.
(CONTINUED)
W
M
W
M
W
47.
IN ANOTHER CORNER:
MARY and the KING also clap. HENRY whispers sexily in MARY's
ear. She laughs. Then HENRY is called to one side...
MARY is momentarily left alone. She looks up to see WILLIAM
CAREY standing in front of her, swaying slightly.
WILLIAM
You're in love with him, aren't you?
MARY
illiam, you're drunk.
WILLIAM
How is it? With him?
MARY stares - suddenly hard - punishing him.
MARY
He pleases me. Is that what you want to
hear?
WILLIAM
What does he do to you? Tell me. I want
to know..
MARY pulls away. But CAREY pulls her roughly to one side. HENRY
sees this from across the room..
WILLIAM
I know you look at me with contempt.
But I had no choice. Your father
insisted I stand aside. What was I
expected to do?
MARY
Say `no', husband.
(a beat)
That was all you had to do.
MARY pulls her arm away, and goes. She walks across the room,
visibly shaken, and joins the KING.
5
INT. HENRY'S APARTMENT - DAY
9 59
HENRY and MARY make love. Two people giving everything of
themselves..
Hours later: they lie together, enveloped in one another's arms.
MARY is awake. The King asleep in her arms. She lovingly strokes
his hair. Watches him breathe.
Her face is glowing. Content. And the look in her eyes tells us
more eloquently and unequivocally than any sonnet..
(CONTINUED)
I
M
48.
...that she has fallen in love.
FADE TO BLACK:
INT. MARY'S APARTMENT - COURT - DAY
60 60
The sound of groaning. Wretching. Shooting through a half-open
door, we see MARY hunched over her basin, vomiting.
P
resently, she emerges from the bathroom. White-faced. Her hands
instinctively covering her belly.
MARY's eyes widen with the implications.
INT. KING'S APARTMENT - DAY
61 61
SIR THOMAS BOLEYN and the DUKE of NORFOLK stare at MARY. Also
present are several PHYSICIANS and GEORGE BOLEYN..
SIR THOMAS
Are you certain?
MARY
Yes.
SIR THOMAS looks at the PHYSICIAN, who nods..
SIR THOMAS
n that case...I suppose...someone
should tell the King.
INT. HENRY'S APARTMENT - DAY
62 62
Shooting through a half-open door..
SIR THOMAS and the DUKE of NORFOLK are having a private audience
with the KING. SIR THOMAS whispers something in HENRY's ear..
(WE DO NOT HEAR THE WORDS - WE DO NOT NEED TO).
HENRY's face breaks out in a smile. He delightedly shakes SIR
THOMAS's hand. OVER THIS: the sound of a voice..
SIR THOMAS (O.S.)
Keep them shut...still shut..
INT. COURT - ACCOMMODATION - DAY
63 63
A blindfolded MARY is led through doors by SIR THOMAS..into a
suite of grand, unfurnished rooms, the most prestigious
accommodation at court..
(CONTINUED)
(
L
(
G
49.
SIR THOMAS
Now open!
MARY removes her blindfold. She gasps in disbelief, turns 360
degrees, staring at the size, and grandeur of the location..
SIR THOMAS
There's more. Thanks to you, I am to
become an Earl. Your brother a Viscount.
EORGE smiles at MARY, who's eyes widen..
SIR THOMAS (cont'd)
In addition, we have received a number
of new grants and estates.
pointedly, to LADY
ELIZABETH)
So our debts are paid off.
But LADY ELIZABETH remains granite-faced..
LADY ELIZABETH
Just be aware. These `gifts', this
`favour' can go as swiftly as it comes.
These rooms belonged to the Duke of
Buckingham. Once the King's closest
friend. Now his head rots on a spike..
SIR THOMAS
Because he committed treason.
ADY ELIZABETH
But what is `treason'? It's anything the
King or his lawyers decide it to be.
Anything that offends him, or causes him
displeasure.
a beat)
And can you assure me we'll never do
that?
LADY ELIZABETH turns and walks out. MARY looks anxiously at SIR
THOMAS, who gestures dismissively..
SIR THOMAS
Pay her no heed..
INT. MARY'S BEDROOM - DAY
64 64
MARY wakes up. She gets out of bed. She goes to the window and
draws the curtains.
Then MARY looks down, and gasps. The floor has fresh drops of
blood on it.
MARY goes to her bed, and rips back the sheets. Her eyes widen
in horror. There is blood all over the sheets.
(CONTINUED)
T
50.
MARY covers her mouth. Lets out a loud cry. The sound of
approaching footsteps as SERVANTS come running..
INT. MARY'S APARTMENT - DAY
65 65
MARY lies on the bed being examined by several PHYSICIANS. SIR
THOMAS and the DUKE of NORFOLK look on in concern. Finally, the
PHYSICIAN turns, washing his hands..
PHYSICIAN
Happily, the baby lives. She's not
miscarried.
S
SIR THOMAS's face. Overcome with relief..
PHYSICIAN
But the placenta is weak. For the sake
of the child..
The PHYSICIAN clears his throat. This will not be easy..
PHYSICIAN
She must begin her lying-in immediately.
MARY
(horrified)
What?
MARY looks up. Her heart sinks.
MARY
But I'm only three months..
66 66
INT. MARY'S BEDROOM - COURT - DAY
MARY lies in her bed, watching with a forlorn expression as
MIDWIVES and MAIDS prepare the apartment for lying-in.
APESTRIES with soothing biblical images are hung on the walls.
CURTAINS are drawn for darkness. A large CRUCIFIX is placed in a
corner.
As each TAPESTRY is hung, the room becomes darker...
..and darker.
..and darker.
MARY cranes her neck to remain in sunlight for as long as
possible, but before long..
..her face slips into darkness, and the room into total silence.
And effective imprisonment.
A
T
6
H
Y
51.
INT. MARY'S APARTMENT - DAY
67 67
Darkness. The KING stands at the foot of MARY's bed. He is
clearly uncomfortable in these `maternal' surroundings..
HENRY
ou poor girl. All alone in here. But
the time will fly by.
MARY
Will it? It's six months?
HENRY
I know. But the most important thing is
a healthy child.
ENRY takes MARY's hand..
HENRY (cont'd)
I'll come and see you as often as I can.
I promise.
H
ENRY kisses MARY, then goes.
8 68
INT. COURT - DAY
The KING's birthday. The MASTER OF REVELS has organised a lavish
ball. The entire court is assembled and dancing, but HENRY
appears sullen, distant. Unable to celebrate.
He misses MARY.
he QUEEN has several of her prettiest SPANISH LADIES-IN WAITING
surrounding the KING. Giggling, fragrant butterflies.
But HENRY shows no interest.
The DUKE of NORFOLK notices this. A flicker of concern.
EXT. GARDENS - DAY
69 69
An archery competition is in progress. But HENRY pays no
attention. He sits listlessly to one side. Ill-tempered and
missing MARY.
mong the GUESTS are SIR JOHN SEYMOUR and his CHILDREN. They
notice the KING, all alone. They talk among themselves.
Sensing an opportunity, SIR JOHN SEYMOUR advances, and presents
his pretty daughter JANE to the KING.
The DUKE of NORFOLK, (never far away), notices how modestly and
demurely young JANE SEYMOUR flirts.
(CONTINUED)
F
52.
She has been well trained.
But she makes no impact on HENRY. He waves the SEYMOURS away.
Not remotely interested.
or the moment.
INT. MARY'S ROOM - LYING-IN - EVENING
70 70
The KING is visiting MARY. He sits by her bed. They hold hands
and are talking intimately.
PULL BACK TO REVEAL:
This is being watched by the DUKE of NORFOLK, and SIR THOMAS
BOLEYN. NORFOLK's face is dark and brooding..
NORFOLK
For the moment he's still visiting Mary.
But for how long? The Queen will soon
have his head spinning with pretty
little Spanish things. Not to mention
the Seymours with that girl of theirs.
NORFOLK looks up...
NORFOLK
What we need is someone from OUR family
who will keep the King focused on Mary,
reminding him of her while she is
absent.
SIR THOMAS is about to speak, then changes his mind.
NORFOLK
What? Speak..
SIR THOMAS
It's just...I was going to suggest Anne.
NORFOLK
You couldn't control that girl last
time. What makes you think it would be
any different now?
SIR THOMAS
I've had favourable reports from the
Dowager Queen in France. It seems she is
quite changed.
INT. MARY'S APARTMENT - DAY
71 71
MARY sits up. Her eyes widen in horror..
(CONTINUED)
H
M
53.
MARY
Why?
Sitting beside her in the darkness, is her brother GEORGE..
GEORGE
I suppose they felt three years of exile
was punishment enough.
MARY
But the King visits me every day.
There's no need for her. Or anyone else.
GEORGE
They just want to protect you. Leave
nothing to chance.
MARY
But in who's interests do they imagine
Anne will act? Certainly not mine.
GEORGE turns, looks all around him..
GEORGE (cont'd)
Why DO they make this room such a
dungeon? Does it really need to be this
dark?
GEORGE notices MARY's vexed expression..
GEORGE
Don't worry. She's had three years to
forgive you. And she's not going to risk
being sent away again. She'll do as
she's told, I'm sure.
(a beat)
Besides, the most important thing is..
GEORGE moves MARY's lips into an upward shape..
GEORGE
The three of us will be together again.
MARY's lips: a reluctant, unconvincing smile..
FADE TO BLACK:
EXT. KENT COUNTRYSIDE - COAST - DAY
72 72
The thunder of galloping horses.
alf a dozen RIDERS, among them a HOODED WOMAN, riding side-
saddle, tearing across the countryside..
P
54.
EXT. VILLAGES - DAY
73 73
The RIDERS and the WOMAN gallop through villages, spraying mud.
VILLAGERS stop and stare..
A MOTHER pulls a child out of the path of the RIDERS.
EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - NIGHT
74 74
The RIDERS and the WOMAN ride in silhouette against a perfect
full moon..
EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY
75 75
HENRY and several of his COURTIERS return from a hunting trip.
Several dead STAGS are carried on horseback. The atmosphere is
celebratory. It's been a good day.
Dogs bark in excitement.
INT. GREENWICH PALACE - THAT NIGHT
76 76
A dinner at court. HENRY is at one end, in serious conversation
with foreign AMBASSADORS. Presently, at the other end of the
table, loud laughter.
H
ENRY looks up, then returns to his conversation.
It's not long before another loud gale of laughter in the corner
of the room. HENRY looks up again. Then returns to his
conversation.
resently, a third roar of laughter at the other end. This time,
HENRY loses patience..
HENRY
What's the noise? I can hardly hear
myself think!
At the other end, a COURTIER gets to his feet..
BRANDON
It's Mistress Boleyn, your Majesty. Her
stories about life at the French court.
They are particularly amusing.
HENRY's expression changes. The room falls silent..
HENRY
I'm only aware of one Boleyn girl and
she is lying-in with a certain child in
her belly!
(CONTINUED)
A
H
A
A
55.
SIR THOMAS BOLEYN gets to his feet..
SIR THOMAS
It's my elder daughter, Anne, your
Majesty. She has returned to court.
HENRY
What? That awful girl, Thomas? The one
that almost killed me?
(a beat)
You allowed her back?
SIR THOMAS
The time abroad has done her good, your
Majesty. I'm certain you'd find her much
improved.
HENRY
Really..?
HENRY looks down the table..
HENRY
Well, come on. Where are you, other
Boleyn girl? Show your face.
ANNE slowly gets to her feet. HENRY looks up. When he sees
ANNE's face, his face falls..
ANNE is a woman transformed. Gone are the simple clothes, puppy
fat and lack of confidence.
ANNE has become a glorious, head-turning siren; dressed in
daring French clothes.
er hood is half-crescent, and reveals the hair. Her neckline
plunges sexily. Her sleeves are long and loose, offering daring
flashes of arm and elbow..
Like every other red-blooded MAN in the room, HENRY is utterly
mesmerised. Speechless..
HENRY
So? What is so amusing, Anne? Perhaps we
might hear and judge for ourselves?
ANNE dark, intelligent eyes stare back at HENRY. Suddenly, all
sound fades, and the world shrinks around them: it's as though
they are the only two people in the room..
ANNE
I was just giving my thoughts on the new
French King.
HENRY
Which are..?
(CONTINUED)
H
R
R
56.
ANNE
That for someone with such great wealth,
and power..he has surprisingly little
authority as a man.
HENRY
Hah!
ANNE
And is SO consumed by one particular
rivalry he can barely think.
HENRY
eally? And who is this rival?
ANNE
A neighbouring King, who's name one is
forbidden to mention at court. Whose
reputation haunts him in his thoughts
and dreams.
ipples of laughter, as people guess..
ANNE
Whose armies and navy thwart his every
endeavour. Whose physical and
intellectual endowments are known far
and wide.
ENRY laughs too. Enjoying this..
ANNE
In order to restore his confidence, this
French King spends a fortune on anything
that glitters, on building of castles
with large towers..
ANNE artfully gestures the phallic implications..
ANNE
But these symbols of wealth and virility
fail to convince. Talk among the ladies
at court in France suggests..
A
ANNE stops herself...
HENRY
What?
ANNE
That in this department too, the King
has his shortcomings.
ANNE's gesture, (discreetly wiggling her small finger). HENRY
stares for a moment. A deathly silence. Has she gone too far?
(CONTINUED)
M
O
S
I
S
E
57.
Then HENRY smiles. Delighted. DOGS bark in bewilderment. Soon
everyone in the room laughs too.
xcept for the SEYMOURS, (SIR JOHN and his sons, EDWARD and
THOMAS), who glower, mute, at the end of the table beside their
sister JANE..
INT. MARY'S BEDROOM - DAY
77 77
SIR THOMAS beams with excitement and satisfaction...
SIR THOMAS
You should have seen the Seymours! Their
faces!
MARY lies in bed. Sitting by her side is her father..
SIR THOMAS
They must have thought that with you out
of the way, they had a real opportunity
with that pale-faced thing of theirs,
Jane...
SIR THOMAS smiles as he remembers..
SIR THOMAS (cont'd)
But Anne put pay to that. Last night,
the King only had eyes for us Boleyns.
MARY shoots a private, knowing look..
MARY
Or HER, you mean.
SIR THOMAS
What?
MARY
'm wary of any suggestion that Anne
would serve anyone but herself. France
can't have changed her THAT much.
SIR THOMAS
n this occasion I am quite satisfied
she was being loyal to you.
MARY
Really?
MARY stares hollow-eyed..
MARY (cont'd)
Then ask yourself this. If she is really
so concerned for my well-being...
(a beat)
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
(
H
H
7
58.
...then why hasRY(conot dcome to see me
MA she nt' )
since she returned?
EXT. TILTYARD - DAY
78 78
HENRY and several of his closest COURTIERS are sparring close-
combat sword fighting. It's tough, physical, no-holds barred
stuff..
INT. ARMOURY - DAY
9 79
AFTERWARDS: HENRY and his COURTIERS, (among them GEORGE), are
being undressed and washed by their PAGES and SQUIRES..
HENRY
You're a fortunate man, George. To be
blessed with G
two such sisters.
EORGE
Yes, my Lord.
There is a powerful physicality, a sexual confidence to HENRY
which he exudes, even among men. He moves closer to GEORGE.
ENRY
Tell me. Are they as different in temper
as they are in looks?
GEORGE
Oh, yes. Each has her own, quite
distinct virtues. Mary for example..
HENRY
I'm familiar with Mary's. Tell me about
Anne's.
GEORGE
Anne? Well, she's strong. Some might say
`difficult'.
ENRY
Headstrong. With a fiery temper.
GEORGE
But with it comes great passion, too.
It's both the best and the worst thing
about her.
a beat)
There are no half measures with Anne.
HENRY
Careful, you'll make me think I chose
the wrong Boleyn girl.
(CONTINUED)
A
S
8 A
59.
GEORGE
Oh, no. I'm certain Mary is the right
choice. You will have a serene, happy,
life with her. The risk is with Anne, it
might be like being caught in a wild
summer storm.
HENRY
Is that so..?
GEORGE has tried to put HENRY off. But might just have said the
wrong thing.
HENRY
storm, you say..?
INT. BOLEYN APARTMENTS - COURT - FOLLOWING DAY
0 80
A small, precious-looking GIFT BOX sits on a table.
ERVANT
From the King, madam.
ANNE looks at the box. Her heart misses a beat. It carries the
unmistakable royal seal.
ANNE
Open it.
A SERVANT stares..
ANNE
I said `open it.'
The SERVANT opens it. Other SERVANTS crane their necks, stand on
ti