Be forewarned - if you expect a time-period piece and literal translation of the story into it's origionally intended setting, you will be greatly dissapointed. But if you value a phenomenal gathering of theatrical performances, and an excellent, uncomplicated production, please take the time to watch this film! Ian Holm as Lear should not be passed by (if you are ever lucky enough to have the opportunity to see him in this role on stage, don't miss it!)
The production is filmed on sparse sets with simple costumes (taking after the stage production from which it was developed), allowing the language and emotion to come forward - the story needs no props or special effects, as it is nearly as perfect a tragedy as Shakespeare ever wrote.
I do recommend familiarizing yourself with the story if you haven't already, and let go of whatever preconcieved ideas you may have about what Shakespeare's stories 'ought' to look like.
Enjoy!
The production is filmed on sparse sets with simple costumes (taking after the stage production from which it was developed), allowing the language and emotion to come forward - the story needs no props or special effects, as it is nearly as perfect a tragedy as Shakespeare ever wrote.
I do recommend familiarizing yourself with the story if you haven't already, and let go of whatever preconcieved ideas you may have about what Shakespeare's stories 'ought' to look like.
Enjoy!