RICHARD III
Directed & Produced by: Laurence Olivier.
Based on the play by William Shakespeare; Text Alterations by Colley Cibber & David Garrick.
Director of Photography: Otto Heller.
Edited by: Helga Cranston.
Music by: William Walton.
Released by: Criterion.
Country of Origin: UK. 158 min. Not Rated.
With: Laurence Olivier, Ralph Richardson, John Gielgud, Cedric Hardwicke & Claire Bloom.
DVD Features: Commentary by Russell Lees and John Wilders. Great Acting: Laurence Oliver, BBC Interview, 1966. Television Trailer. Production Stills & Posters. An Essay by Film Historian Bruce Eder. Theatrical Trailer.

In what some might call his most brilliant performance, Laurence Olivier portrays the title role in an adaptation, which is a must-see for all Shakespeare or Olivier fans. Winner of the British Academy Film Award for best film in 1956, this is a compelling and handsomely-mounted recount of a brother’s lust for power and rise to the throne at all costs, including murder. There is always a risk of over-dramatizing Shakespearean literature in film, yet the cast, in performances that seem crafted for the stage, never overacts, nevertheless.

Extras: Olivier comes to life in an interview that is informative and integral to a comprehensive understanding of the actor. Commentary on other projects, such as Hamlet, Othello, and The Entertainer, is offered. Olivier also produced a television trailer that gives insight to the film, showcasing many of the poignant scenes in the film. We are given footage of production designer Roger Furse at work in his studio and glimpses of his actual costume designs. The special features alone are worthy of rental, especially for Olivier fans. Lisette Johnson
March 1, 2004