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by Jan Hendrik Verstraten (Author), Massimo Barbato (Author)
An innovative retelling of the story of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn
Trapped in Limbo after his death, an obstinate Henry VIII is forced to relive key events from his life. To redeem his soul, he must accept the truth of his cruelty as a king and a husband, and face the ex-wives he betrayed.
Anne Boleyn, his second wife, is tormented by grief and the great injustice of her death and separation from her daughter, Elizabeth. She must confront Henry, the cause of her suffering, to find her way into the light.
Official Selection: LA Cinema of Hollywood Festival (USA: Winter 2016). Winner: Best Narrative Short (JH Verstraten) - Best Director (JH Verstraten) - Best Actor (Sebastian Street) - Best Actress (Fleur Keith) - Best Cinematography (Simon Rowling) - Best Original Score (Louis Sebastian Mander)
Official Selection: 49th Worldfest-Houston IFF (USA: April 2016). Winner: Gold REMI Award
Official Selection: International Filmmakers Festival, London (UK: February 2016). Winner: Best Costume Design (Kristen Ernst-Brown) - Best Hair & Make-Up (Chanel Murray). Nominated: Best Director (JH Verstraten) - Best Editor (JH Verstraten)
'Mesmeric and dreamlike in the richness of its setting, I am Henry offers a new perspective on the story of Henry VIII from the vantage point of Limbo. It is an intensely satisfying - if at times unsettling - read, providing the meetings and encounters that you always wished had happened. Just what would Catherine of Aragon, Jane Seymour or Catherine Howard say to their mutual husband years after his contribution to their deaths? What of Anne Boleyn, imprisoned by the unfinished business of her life cut so abruptly short. I am Henry both re-evaluates a notorious life from a novel perspective, as well as taking his story forwards, beyond his death. A compelling read.'
Elizabeth Norton, Historian and Author
'I am Henry is a highly imaginative and emotionally engaging story of repentance and redemption. It masterfully personifies the various characters and helps readers see them as fully realised people rather than mere faces in a painting, as we so often experience them. The story also offers some great insights into human nature, why we resist change, and the emotional journey that often leads to it. I see this finding a ready audience amongst the fans of the short film that inspired this novel. Not to mention those who are fascinated by Henry VIII and his wives.'
Kevin Miller, Author
'What if Henry VIII had to confront those he'd hurt during his life? What if he was confronted by his sins? What if he had to explain himself to the woman he'd moved heaven and earth to marry but then executed?
We all want to know what would happen, and "I am Henry" has Henry VIII's spirit being confronted by Anne Boleyn, Catherine of Aragon and Henry, Duke of Cornwall, his short-lived son by Catherine, among others, and they're all keen to share their thoughts on him.
The setting is atmospheric, and we have some wonderfully poignant and emotionally charged scenes as Henry has to re-evaluate his life and answer to others. Will he submit and repent and thereby gain eternal peace and salvation?
I loved the "I am Henry" film, and the book is true to that-a wonderful read.'
Claire Ridgway, author of The Fall of Anne Boleyn: A Countdown
