Cast
View AllTom Payne
as Rob Cole
Emily Cox
as Mercia
Aidan Gillen
as Hunne
Áine Rose Daly
as Ilene
Owen Teale
as Godwin
Liam Cunningham
as Canute
Emma Rigby
as Rebecca
Sara Kestelman
as Morrigan
Anne Ratte-Polle
as Aemma
Máté Haumann
as Bishop Edgar
Leonard Scheicher
as Harthacnut
Harry Redding
as Duff
Francis Fulton-Smith
as Leofric
Malick Bauer
as Abu
Anders Grundberg
as Son of Godwin
Crew
Director
- Philipp Stölzl
Writer
- Stewart Harcourt
Producer
- Philipp Stölzl
- Wolf Bauer
- Till Derenbach
- Petra Iványi
- Péter Magyar
- Milan Szabo
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Physician II examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Philipp Stölzl brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2025, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Physician II took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 72 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2025, when this film is released:
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Physician II shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Cut Off, which focuses more on action than character development, The Physician II offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Hazel's People and Carrie explore similar territory, The Physician II stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 25, 2025