I am quite fond of Shakespeare, and the story of King Lear really compels and moves me. I have to say I was really impressed with this 1983 version of the play. The story still has its emotional impact, I genuinely felt for Lear here, and the dialogue is absolutely wonderful and makes you feel all sorts of different emotions all at once.
My only complaint with this King Lear is the music. I do agree it does get melodramatic and over-bearing and it sometimes doesn't fit the scene. Then in some scenes where it is welcome it isn't used at all. In my mind, either have music that enhances the drama or don't use it at all.
Aside from that, everything else was superb. I was very taken with the filming, the setting is beautifully evoked as are the costumes and there are some very interesting camera angles and uses of lighting. The direction is strong too, and the performances are top notch. Anna Calder-Marshall, John Hurt, Robert Lindsey, Leo McKern and Colin Blakely all do some really effective work, but it is Laurence Olivier's superb and quite poignant performance in the pivotal role that drives it.
Overall, very well done, elevated by the great acting of Olivier and co, and if it hadn't been for the music it would have been note-perfect. 9/10 Bethany Cox
My only complaint with this King Lear is the music. I do agree it does get melodramatic and over-bearing and it sometimes doesn't fit the scene. Then in some scenes where it is welcome it isn't used at all. In my mind, either have music that enhances the drama or don't use it at all.
Aside from that, everything else was superb. I was very taken with the filming, the setting is beautifully evoked as are the costumes and there are some very interesting camera angles and uses of lighting. The direction is strong too, and the performances are top notch. Anna Calder-Marshall, John Hurt, Robert Lindsey, Leo McKern and Colin Blakely all do some really effective work, but it is Laurence Olivier's superb and quite poignant performance in the pivotal role that drives it.
Overall, very well done, elevated by the great acting of Olivier and co, and if it hadn't been for the music it would have been note-perfect. 9/10 Bethany Cox