The King's Man: Ralph Fiennes describes Orlando Oxford as unapologetically aristocratic and devoted to his boy

The much-awaited Matthew Vaughn directorial releases on January 14, 2022 in English and Hindi in theatres

Ralph Fiennes in The King's Man

Ralph Fiennes, who is known for getting under the character’s skin, will next been seen in the upcoming drama The King's Man. One of the finest actors, this academy award winner is back on the big screen with 20th Century Studios production. He plays the lead role of Orlando Oxford - The Duke of Oxford in the film. The actor recently talked about his character and how does he relate to it.

In a press statement, Fiennes describes The Duke of Oxford as “unapologetically aristocratic” and “devoted to his boy”. He said that the audience will understand why Oxford is a pacifist in the first five minutes of the movie. The context is the approach of the First World War, and the key relationship in the film, I would argue, is between Oxford and his son, who wants to prove himself in war as a courageous young man. And Oxford’s deep reluctance to see him go to war.”

Fiennes adds that he is familiar with the kind of character he plays as he feels he has met people like the Duke of Oxford. He added that he likes how Matthew Vaughn (writer and director of the film) does not shy away from the character’s aristocracy in the present times when all are sensitive about class and background. "In terms of someone who is bred and brought up in a certain way, and embodies principles of courage and honour and kindness and service of others; the aristocratic mode of behaviour. So, Oxford is a decent man. Very decent,” he said.

However, co-screenwriter Karl Gajdusek describes Oxford as heavily conflicted. He adds, “He’s (Oxford) sworn a philosophical vow of pacifism. However, the events of his life point the other way. So, he’s a man torn between violence and pacifism; between the protection of fatherhood and the need to let go of a young man. That’s pretty much his core.”

Matthew Vaughn always had Fiennes in his mind for the hero role. "I always thought Ralph would’ve been a fantastic Bond for so many reasons. And when I met with Ralph, it was funny, because he’s incredibly Kingsman in a weird way, in that he’s an incredibly serious man who doesn’t take himself seriously, and he has a wicked sense of humour. And working with him was a delight,” said the director.

The film also features like Ralph Fiennes, Djimon Hounsou, Harris Dickinson, Gemma Arterton, Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Matthew Vaughn has also produced the film which will hit the theatres on January 14. The King’s Man will release in English and Hindi.

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