Directed by Alexander Korda, The Private Life of Henry VIII was the most important British film to be made before World War II. This book looks in depth at this classic film, its makers and its place in the cinematic and cultural history of the period. The story of this film's creation is a fascinating one, presented with energy and originality by Greg Walker, involving negotiations with popular conceptions of King Henry, Charles Laughton's extraordinary performance in the central role and intriguing portrayals of Henry's eight wives.