King Charles II Period Film 'Monstrous Beauty' Will Feature a Stunning Ensemble Cast

The Stuart Restoration, which saw King Charles II reclaim his family's throne following his father's execution and the intervening years of Oliver Cromwell's Protectorate, is probably one of the most dramatic times in England's history. The restoration of the monarchy not only saw Charles II return from a life of exile, but his subsequent court was famously scandalous, known for its extravagance and general air of debauchery. Illicit affairs, adultery, gambling, and partying were rampant, and the king surrounded himself with bawdy rakes and libertines. Yet, despite the memorable setting and licentious attitudes of Charles' court, relatively few historical dramas have taken on the challenge of telling stories set in this time period.

This is a big part of the reason that the upcoming feature film Monstrous Beauty is so intriguing. Written and directed by BAFTA and Golden Globe nominee Romola Garai, the film follows the story of Barbara Fields, an aspiring playwright who suffers from a rare condition that means her body is entirely covered in hair. Given a place in Charles II's court, she longs to be seen for who she is rather than regarded as a freakish wonder to be gawked at and hopes that the other powerful women there can somehow help her achieve her dreams.

The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey has been tapped to play Barbara, alongside Dominic West (The Crown) as King Charles II, Ruth Negga (Passing) as his infamous mistress Nell Gwynn, and Fiona Shaw (Baptiste) as Aphra Ben, the first published female playwright in history.