Not a history

Rating: 4/10 (5 November 2019)

Netflix sunk a lot of money into its version of Henry IV(2) and Henry V. It did not spend it well or wisely. What we are presented is a small kernel of truth with a vast coconut husk of fancy. They got the names right, at least.
Yes, the small details of early 15th century life and so on were good. The first half of the movie focusing on the fictitious "young Hal and Falstaff" story line is acceptable for its well recognized mythology. But when the movie plays fast and loose with clear history such as the campaign against Percy Hotspur I should have known nothing good was in the offing. But I still held out hopes because the production values were so good. Yes the acting is good, particularly if you like brooding young men. It truly is a lovely, gritty tale. 75% fiction, but a lovely tale.
The Battle of Agincourt is soooo wrong. Yes, there were archers. Yes there was mud. Yes there were French knights and men at arms on horse. Netflix had the opportunity to make a truly epic presentation of one of the most epic battles in military history. What a disappointment.