The King's Daughter (2022 film)
The King's Daughter is a 2022 American fantasy adventure film directed by Sean McNamara. It is based on the 1997 novel The Moon and the Sun by Vonda N. McIntyre. The film stars Kaya Scodelario, Pierce Brosnan, Benjamin Walker, and William Hurt (in his final film role).
Plot: The film follows King Louis XIV of France in his quest for immortality. He commissions a scientist to capture a mermaid, believing its life force can grant him eternal life. His illegitimate daughter, Marie-Josèphe, forms a bond with the mermaid and is determined to protect it.
Production History: The film had a long and troubled production history. It was originally filmed in 2014 with the title The Moon and the Sun but was delayed for several years due to visual effects work and editing. It was then shelved by Paramount Pictures. The film was eventually acquired and released by Gravitas Ventures in January 2022 under the title The King's Daughter.
Reception: The King's Daughter received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics. Common criticisms centered on the film's weak plot, poor visual effects (despite the long post-production), and uninspired performances.
Cast:
- Kaya Scodelario as Marie-Josèphe
- Pierce Brosnan as King Louis XIV
- Benjamin Walker as Captain Yves De Luz
- William Hurt as Père La Chaise
- Fan Bingbing as the Mermaid
- Ben Lloyd-Hughes as Jean-Michel Lintillac
Awards and Nominations: The King's Daughter received a nomination for Worst Picture at the 42nd Golden Raspberry Awards.