Retro Unit

The Hollow Crown - Series 1 - TV Mini Series (DVD, 2012, 4-Disc) Region 4&2

Name: The Hollow Crown - Series 1 - TV Mini Series (DVD, 2012, 4-Disc) Region 4&2
Brand: Retro Unit
SKU: IF_E59A87CD
Price: 24.95 AUD
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THE HOLLOW CROWN – RICHARD II/HENRY IV/HENRY V DVD, 4-DISC BOX SET - R-2+4.

Compellingly Shakespeare studies in detail the strengths and weaknesses of three consecutive kings. Richard II (Ben Whishaw), led astray by flatterers, learns all too soon "Divine Right" offers no protection when one so alienates. Henry IV (Jeremy Irons) feels doubly insecure - mindful his crown was obtained by force and all may be lost if his pleasure-loving heir continues to cavort with low life. Henry V (Tom Hiddleston) is that wayward prince transformed, previous experiences allowing him the common touch that helps secure glorious victory against France.

Four discs. Four interesting bonuses. Many imaginative touches and much to provoke thought. Ben Whishaw tells how the Histories are amongst the less accessible of Shakespeare's plays, actors thus having to work that little bit harder. A major aim has been to make the magnificent language sound as natural as possible. Film, rather than stage, gives far greater scope for nuances, so much conveyed by subtle expressions. Fascinatingly, characters not featured prominently in print visually now have a major part to play. Take John Hurt's Chorus in "Henry V", for example. (Slight spoiler coming up!) Only at the very end do we learn this old man has been looking back on events witnessed as the page boy we were seeing so often. (By the way, the very start of "Henry V" may unsettle some.)

Throughout, much is superb - full of unexpected touches that add rather than distract. "Richard II" is visually stunning, full of colour to reflect the monarch's extravagant lifestyle. "Henry IV" is generally far more austere, that pivotal battle amidst snow a highlight. "Henry V" has Harry's two traditionally rousing speeches more as asides to those closest around him.

When viewed in quick succession, continuity is greatly helped by Tom Hiddleston being in both "Henry IV" and "Henry V" (by happy chance, as it turns out). Earlier, Rory Kinnear's future Henry IV becomes Jeremy Irons when King, which initially jolts a little. Both actors are superb, but in different ways.

With so much excelling, it may seem unfair to single out just one performance, but Simon Russell Beale's Falstaff may for many prove a lingering memory - especially when all his high hopes, indeed confident expectations, are so devastatingly dashed. Movingly portrayed is the shock from which he will never recover.

Great talents have converged, the result a triumph.

(P.S. Which of the three Kings reigned longest? The answer may surprise you. It certainly did me.)

Ss2

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