Review | Requiem of the Rose King (Episode 7 - 12)

“The second part of Requiem of the Rose King is significantly darker. It’s a captivating tale of war and betrayals all building up to Richard’s descent into hell.”

The first cour of Requiem of the Rose King is finally over. I reviewed the first six episodes awhile ago and now I’m reviewing the final six episodes. And don’t worry, if you love this series, a second cour is coming starting April 10!

WAR OF THE ROSES

The second part of the first cour is a lot darker as the war of the roses rages on. On one side, you have Edward trying to get his throne back. On the other side, you have the Lancaster fighting to keep their throne. Since, it’s a war you need casualties. And, the series doesn’t hold back. Indeed, the final episodes are a real bloodbath. Though, it’s not visually gory. That’s what I like about this series, it tells a violent story but it’s still something you can watch without having nightmares about it at night.

Warwick continues his chess game manipulating the other characters to get what he wants. He is a vicious character lusting for power. In this part, he really shows what he is truly capable of doing to keep power. It’s a world of betrayals coming from him but other characters as well. Allies turn enemies and enemies turn allies. Buckingham also reveals his true self and has a bigger role in this second part of the first cour. Indeed, he is similar in many ways to Warwick. Except, he is not as vicious.

RICHARD AND HENRI

These episodes dive deeper into Richard and Henri’s relationship. In fact, they do share several tender moments which helps Richard easing up. When Richard is with Henri, he forgets about violence, he just lives in the moment. It’s actually the only moments when we can see his humanity. Henri is the only character who keeps Richard from totally turning into a monster. He is Richard’s salvation. So, it’s a beautiful relationship. Though, it’s also a flawed one. Because Richard doesn’t know Henri is the Lancaster king, his sworn enemy. Thus, their bond is doomed. Henri doesn’t want to be king. Indeed, he wants to run away with Richard to forget all that. But, Richard is more conflicted about running away.

Richard and Henri’s love story is very much a Greek tragedy. In many ways, it is like Romeo and Juliet. They come from families that are sworn enemies. So their love is a forbidden one as their families would never accept it. And, them not knowing who they really are also plays into that. But still, you root for them. However, you know the conclusion of their story is going to be tragic. And episode 12 is the culmination of it all. I definitely recommend having tissues with you when you watch the episode.

VERDICT

The second part of Requiem of the Rose King is significantly darker. It’s a captivating tale of war and betrayals all building up to Richard’s descent into hell.