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‘Elizabeth was king, Then James was queen.’
– Unknown English author (1623)

King James VI of Scotland, the son of Mary, Queen of Scots, became James I of England on the death of his cousin Elizabeth I in 1603, becoming Britain’s first king in the process. He may not be as well-known or understood as his predecessors Elizabeth and Henry VIII, but his lengthy reign encompassed several significant historical events. He oversaw the creation of the King James Bible, was patron to Shakespeare, stepped up the plantation of Ulster and narrowly escaped being blown up in the Gunpowder Plot.
He was also an avowed pacifist, likely borne from a violent and terrifying childhood when the child monarch witnessed brutal murders and was the victim of multiple kidnap attempts.

This pacificism was most pronounced in his refusal to enter the Thirty Years War, which was kicking off in Europe towards the end of his reign. His pacifism was almost certainly a factor in him being dubbed ‘Queen James’, as his determination not to spend a fortune sending men to Europe brought criticism from many of his more bullish advisors.

But his predisposition to avoid conflict was not the only reason for the epithet. In court circles, James was well known for having his favourites; a succession of young, good-looking men, who were welcomed into his inner sanctum as close friends, political advisors and, in many cases, bedfellows. These favoured associates would typically survive for a few years, before James would move on to a newer, younger model.

Gareth Russell, the author of Queen James: The Life and Loves of Britain’s First King, tells James’ story, focusing on a sensational murder trial that threatened to shake the monarchy to its core.

At the heart of the film are readings of James’ letters, writings and speeches, beautifully delivered by the Scottish actor James McArdle.