Restoration (1995): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1995, Restoration is a drama and romance film directed by Michael Hoffman, running about 117 minutes. “An ordinary man, an irresistible offer. In a world of seduction and power, temptation has its price.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. An aspiring young physician, Robert Merivel found himself in the service of King Charles II and saves the life of someone close to the King. Merivel joins the King's court and lives the high life provided to someone of his position. Merivel is ordered to marry his King's mistress in order to divert the queens suspicions. He is given one order by the king and that is not to fall in love. The situation worsens when Merivel finds himself in love with his new wife. Eventually, the King finds out and relieves Merivel of his position and wealth. His fall from grace leaves Merivel where he first started. And through his travels and reunions with an old friend, he rediscovers his love for true medicine and what it really means to be a physician.

Who’s in it. Restoration stars Robert Downey Jr. as Robert Merivel, Meg Ryan as Katharine, Sam Neill as King Charles II and David Thewlis as John Pearce, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.1/10, Restoration has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response. It went on to earn $4M at the box office.

Where to watch. In US you can rent or buy it from JustWatch TV, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Restoration page.

If you liked it. Fans of Restoration tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.