New Delhi: C. J. Sansom’s historical mystery novel series took place during the 16th century under the reign of Henry VIII and it will serve as the basis for the future historical series Shardlake. Produced by The Forge and directed by Justin Chadwick, the series is adapted by Stephen Butchard. In the lead role of Matthew Shardlake, Arthur Hughes co-stars with Sean Bean as Thomas Cromwell.
Set at the distant Scarnsea monastery in the 16th century, during the rule of Henry VIII, the plot follows lawyer Matthew Shardlake as he investigates a strange murder.
So sad to learn of the death of the brilliant C. J. Sansom. It doesn’t seem possible that it was twenty-one years ago that his brilliant lawyer-detective Matthew Shardlake swept into my life. I’ve spent immeasurable blissful hours lost in his works. Rest in power, Chris. pic.twitter.com/Hdcxj7q0Vi
— Dr Owen Emmerson (@DrOwenEmmerson) April 29, 2024
Plot
In this Tudor-era mystery, Thomas Cromwell sent Matthew Shardlake to the distant village of Scarnsea to investigate the commissioner’s murder. The narrative centres on the monasteries’ destruction during this time.
It all started in 1537 when suddenly death struck London. The seemingly endless string of killings that seemed to be plaguing the town had many people both intrigued and terrified. Unprecedented chaos had descended over England, unlike anything seen since the Norman Conquest. Henry VIII had already declared himself supreme head of the Catholic Church and severed all links with it. With this revelation, the country is being hurled into an uncertain future.
In that situation, Matthew Shardlake appears, rescuing them from this terrifying and unpredictable mess. One of Thomas Cromwell’s commissioners was brutally murdered, leaving him beset with uncertainties and conjecture. But the more Shardlake investigates, the more he finds out about the matter, and the more horrifying the secrets and facts become.
When and Where to Watch?
This drama is available on Hulu for audiences in the United Kingdom and the United States. Starting May 1, 2024, viewers in India will also join in being able to watch Shardlake on Disney Plus Hotstar.
Check out my #Shardlake interview with Anthony Boyle, Arthur Hughes and Ruby Serkis later this week.
All episodes premiere on Hulu/Disney+ on May 1 ⚔️ https://t.co/XWhOTWCUcb pic.twitter.com/DjhUcbhAib
— Mo (EIC – The Streamr) (@TwoLetterMo) April 23, 2024
Soundtrack album released for Hulu/Disney+ murder mystery series ‘Shardlake’ starring Arthur Hughes, Sean Bean & Anthony Boyle feat. original score by Alex Heffes. https://t.co/apLkNsGw6X pic.twitter.com/LKveGtFSeV
— Film Music Reporter (@filmmusicrep) April 26, 2024
Cast and Crew
Actors Arthur Hughes (as Matthew Shardlake), Sean Bean (as Thomas Cromwell), and Anthony Boyle (as John Barak) will transport audiences to the 16th century in this next historical drama. It also features a plethora of other actors and actresses, such as Paul Kaye, Ruby Ashbourne Serkis, Peter Firth, Matthew Steer, and Babou Ceesay.
Stephen Butchard wrote the script, while Justin Chadwick directed the film.
