Paul Scofield delivers an outstanding performance as the Lord Chancellor of England, a man struggling with conflicting obligations to both his monarch and his own moral compass. As Henry VIII, portrayed by Robert Shaw, increasingly becomes captivated by Anne Boleyn (Vanessa Redgrave), he demands that everyone in the country accept his complete authority over the church. While most people comply due to concerns about …

A study in moral conflict. Fred Zinnemann is at the helm, directing from a screenplay by Robert Bolt, adapted from his own stage play. The cast includes Paul Scofield, Wendy Hiller, Leo McKern, Robert Shaw, Orson Welles, Susannah York, Nigel Davenport and John Hurt. Georges Delerue composed the music, and Ted Moore was responsible for the cinematography. The narrative centers on Sir Thomas More, portrayed by Scofi…