‘Madfabulous’ tells the remarkable true story of Henry Cyril Paget, the fifth Marquess of Anglesey, a Welsh aristocrat whose extravagant lifestyle and refusal to conform to Victorian expectations made him one of Britain’s most fascinating eccentrics.

Callum Scott Howells gives an engaging performance as Paget, a flamboyant aristocrat who spends his inheritance on lavish theatrical productions, dazzling costumes, jewellery, and his famous butterfly dances. The film looks beautiful throughout, making strong use of North Wales locations, grand country houses and eye-catching costumes that capture both the glamour and excess of its central character.

There’s also strong support from Ruby Stokes as his wife Lily and Rupert Everett as the loyal family butler Gelert, who brings warmth and humour to the story, with a tender scene when Gelert explains the legend of Beddgelert and how he was given the name.

The film works best as a celebration of individuality and self-expression, portraying Paget as someone determined to live life on his own terms in a society that struggled to understand him. However, while it’s visually rich and often charming, it never quite decides whether it wants to be a flamboyant comedy, a moving character study, or a serious drama. As a result, some of the emotional moments feel underdeveloped and the story occasionally lacks the depth needed to fully explore its fascinating subject.

Nevertheless, thanks to Howells’ charismatic performance and the film’s affectionate portrait of an extraordinary Welsh figure, ‘Madfabulous’ remains an entertaining and colourful tribute to a man who was, quite literally, ahead of his time.