A Royal Affair (2012)

Rooney finds the film an engrossing, elegantly told historical drama, despite some plot density near its conclusion. He particularly praises the compelling performances of its three central actors.

Adams finds the film nimble despite a romance that is not especially gripping and a debate whose resolution becomes too predictable. He praises Mads Mikkelsen’s expressive performance and Alicia Vikander’s anguished intensity, while singling out newcomer Mikkel Boe Følsgaard’s layered portrayal of the king.

Smith finds the film highly entertaining and educational despite its length and neglected peripheral characters. She praises the performances, especially Mikkel Boe Følsgaard’s humorous King Christian and Alicia Vikander’s luminous Queen Caroline.

The review finds the Danish period drama subtler than many heritage films, despite its familiar television-drama look. It praises the panache of the performances and the complexity of the characterisation.

The standfirst presents the film positively as a sweeping costume drama. It singles out Mads Mikkelsen for stealing the show.

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Arcel gives the scandal a traditional treatment while aiming for modern emotional immediacy. Mikkel Boe Folsgaard’s performance as the king stands out for balancing menace with sympathy.

Turan finds the film polished and intelligently restrained, but overly earnest and somewhat bloodless. He singles out Mikkel Boe Følsgaard’s unexpectedly affecting portrayal of the lonely, naive king.

Simon finds the historical drama handsome but uneven, with its love story and political thriller elements not always balanced. She singles out the court intrigues and the mad king’s escapades as more compelling than the romance, while praising the Czech locations and cinematography.

Schenker finds the period drama staid and its central romance unconvincing. He praises the more complex portrayal of the half-mad king and the moments when Enlightenment reforms challenge the royal council.

Barnes finds the period drama confident but dour, and says it ultimately lacks passion. He particularly faults the barely simmering chemistry between Struensee and Caroline Mathilde.

The critic calls it a compelling, terrific costume drama and an intimate love story. They praise the performances of Mads Mikkelsen, Alicia Vikander, and Mikkel Boe Følsgaard for bringing its central trio to life.

Ellingson finds the film nuanced and compelling, with its romance inseparable from political upheaval. She praises Arcel’s deft interweaving of the love story and the reforms, while noting the slow build.

The critic finds the film handsome and well-acted but too conventional to be especially challenging. Mads Mikkelsen’s subtle performance is singled out for elevating the familiar period drama.

Kermode finds the film a sophisticated, politically engaged romance that offers plenty for viewers seeking love and history. She especially praises the sensitive portrayal of Christian, while noting that Vikander struggles to convey Caroline’s intellectual brilliance.