BAFTA Connect member and award-winning director Leon Mitchell has announced the dual release of his new novel and cinematic documentary, The One True Empress. The cross-media project focuses on the life of Empress Matilda, the 12th-century "Lady of the English" and the first female claimant to the English throne, whose story was frequently sidelined in historical accounts.
Both the book and the film are scheduled for release in late 2026. Leveraging his academic background in psychology, Mitchell approaches the narrative by examining the internal resilience and psychological toll required for Matilda to navigate "The Anarchy"—the brutal civil war sparked when her birthright was denied following the death of her father, King Henry I.
The novel, which will be available through
Waterstones and major booksellers, is structured as a fast-paced historical epic designed with a cinematic style. It follows Mitchell's previous literary success, which includes the Amazon bestseller Dark Dreamers and the BBC Radio-featured Felicity Fire and the Forever Key.
Simultaneously, the documentary feature utilizes a dramatic visual approach to connect 12th-century history with modern audiences. To ensure historical accuracy, Mitchell partnered with Royal Historical Society Fellow Sharon Bennett Connolly, author of Women of the Anarchy, who provides expert commentary throughout the film. Long-time collaborator Peter Darnes joins the production team, while actress and presenter Chloe Wainwright serves as the project's narrator and host.
Speaking about the release, Mitchell noted that the project aims to explore the mental strength required to challenge a patriarchal system, using psychological research to examine the personal cost of her ambition.
The dual release marks another expansion in Mitchell’s multi-disciplinary career, which spans literature, film, and television, including his work directing the Prime series The Luna Squad. With over 51 international film awards and 18 nominations to his credit, Mitchell's latest venture combines historical research with visual media to bring Matilda's story back into the public eye.
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