Was This Enigmatic Aristocrat a Visionary Ahead of His Time?

Callum Scott Howells, known for his role in "It's a Sin," expressed that portraying the eccentric 19th-century Welsh aristocrat Henry Paget in the upcoming biopic "Madfabulous" was a "genuine honour." The film chronicles the extravagant life of the fifth Marquess of Anglesey, who was notorious for his lavish spending and flamboyant lifestyle, challenging the norms of Edwardian society.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The anticipation surrounding "Madfabulous" is mounting as audiences await its release later this year. The film aims to shed light on the extraordinary life of Henry Paget, a figure whose eccentricities and bold self-expression resonate with contemporary discussions on gender and identity. Callum Scott Howells' portrayal promises to bring Paget's enigmatic character to life, drawing from extensive research and a deep appreciation for Paget's legacy.

Key takeaways

Callum Scott Howells plays Henry Paget, the fifth Marquess of Anglesey, in "Madfabulous."
Paget inherited a vast fortune and spent approximately £60 million on extravagant pursuits.
His life is marked by flamboyant performances and lavish parties at his estate, Plas Newydd.

Timeline: how we got here

Henry Paget's life began in 1874, and he inherited Plas Newydd after his father's death in 1898. His rise to notoriety came during the early 1900s, marked by extravagant spending and performances. Tragically, Paget's life was cut short when he died in Monaco in 1914 at the age of 29. "Madfabulous" began production in 2023, capturing the essence of Paget's life in just over a month of filming across various locations in North Wales.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent interviews with Callum Scott Howells reveal his personal connection to the character and the challenges of portraying an ambiguous figure with a complex sexual identity. The film's director, Celyn Jones, emphasised the importance of authenticity in costume design, creating bespoke outfits to reflect Paget's flamboyant style.

What was already established

Henry Paget was known as the "Dancing Marquess" and was famed for his extravagant lifestyle, which included transforming his family's estate into a venue for theatrical performances. His spending habits and lifestyle were often viewed as reckless during the Edwardian era, but he has since become a symbol of individuality and self-expression.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The film is expected to resonate with UK audiences by exploring themes of identity and self-expression, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. It may prompt discussions on the historical treatment of gender fluidity and extravagance, reflecting broader societal changes in attitudes toward these subjects.

Businesses and jobs

In the local context, the production of "Madfabulous" has likely provided employment opportunities in North Wales, from film crews to local businesses supporting the film's logistics. The film industry can have a significant economic impact on smaller communities, especially when filming in historically rich locations.

Policy and regulation

The portrayal of LGBTQ+ figures in media can influence public perception and policy. "Madfabulous" contributes to the ongoing dialogue about representation in film and the importance of diverse narratives in shaping cultural understanding within the UK.

Numbers that matter

£60 million: The estimated amount Henry Paget spent on his extravagant lifestyle, equivalent to over £6 billion today when adjusted for inflation.
29: The age at which Paget died, highlighting the brevity of his flamboyant life.
31 days: The duration of the film's production, showcasing the efficiency and dedication of the crew.

Definitions and jargon buster

Gender fluid: A gender identity that may change over time, allowing a person to express themselves in various ways.
Biopic: A film that tells the story of a real person's life, often dramatising events and experiences.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the film approaches its release date, marketing efforts are likely to ramp up, engaging audiences through trailers, interviews, and promotional events that highlight Paget's story and its relevance.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the film's release, discussions around its themes and historical context may emerge, with potential for academic analysis and public forums focusing on LGBTQ+ representation in media.

Signals to watch

Box office performance of "Madfabulous" as an indicator of audience interest in historical LGBTQ+ narratives.
Social media discussions and critical reviews that could shape public perception of the film and its themes.

Practical guidance

Do

Explore Henry Paget's life through various resources, including historical texts and documentaries.
Engage in discussions about the film's themes, particularly regarding identity and self-expression.

Don’t

Assume Paget's identity can be easily categorised; his life challenges binary notions of gender.
Dismiss the cultural significance of extravagant lifestyles in historical contexts.

Checklist

Research the historical context of the Edwardian era and its societal norms.
Familiarise yourself with LGBTQ+ history in the UK to better understand the film's themes.
Consider the impact of representation in media on contemporary society.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While "Madfabulous" aims to portray Henry Paget's life authentically, there are inherent risks in interpreting historical figures whose identities are not fully documented. The lack of conclusive evidence regarding Paget's sexuality may lead to debates about representation and historical accuracy. Additionally, societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals have evolved, and the film may provoke discussions on how past behaviours are viewed through a modern lens.

Bottom line

"Madfabulous" offers a unique glimpse into the life of Henry Paget, a figure whose extravagant lifestyle and ambiguous identity challenge societal norms. As audiences prepare to engage with this biopic, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of individual expression and the importance of understanding historical context in contemporary discussions about identity.

FAQs

Who was Henry Paget?

Henry Paget, the fifth Marquess of Anglesey, was a 19th-century Welsh aristocrat known for his extravagant lifestyle and theatrical performances, often referred to as the "Dancing Marquess."

What is "Madfabulous" about?

"Madfabulous" is a biopic detailing the life of Henry Paget, exploring his flamboyant personality and the societal challenges he faced during the Edwardian era.

Why is Henry Paget considered significant today?

Paget is seen as an icon of individualism and a figure ahead of his time, challenging norms regarding gender and identity, making his story relevant in contemporary discussions.