Watch Living Shakespeare - A Year With the Royal Shakespeare Company

Living Shakespeare - A Year With the Royal Shakespeare Company is a captivating documentary that takes you behind the scenes of one of the most prestigious theater companies in the world. Directed by John Wyver, the film is a tribute to the genius of William Shakespeare and the talented actors who bring his words to life. The story follows the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) as they embark on a journey to celebrate Shakespeare's 400th birthday by performing all 37 of his plays within a year. The film takes you through the grueling rehearsals, complex set designs, and nerve-wracking performances that make up the RSC's world-renowned productions.

David Bradley, known for his roles in Game of Thrones and Harry Potter, takes on the challenging task of playing Shakespeare's most beloved characters, including King Lear, Falstaff, and Prospero. Sylvestra Le Touzel, a veteran stage actress, also shines in her portrayal of iconic characters like Lady Macbeth and Viola.

The documentary is masterfully edited, interweaving footage of the RSC's performances with interviews and rehearsal scenes. The filmmakers give you an intimate look at the intense preparation that goes into each play, as well as the personal struggles of the actors as they delve deeper into the complex characters they are portraying.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the documentary is the way in which it captures the collaborative nature of theater. The scenes of the actors and producers working together to create the perfect staging, lighting and sound design give you a sense of the intricate process behind each performance.

The film also explores some of the more controversial aspects of Shakespeare's plays, including their portrayal of gender and race. Through interviews with the actors and directors, you gain a deeper understanding of how the RSC is working to update and modernize these plays for today's audiences.

Living Shakespeare - A Year With the Royal Shakespeare Company is not just a tribute to the great playwright, but also a celebration of the transformative power of theater. The film is a testament to the talent and dedication of the actors and directors who bring Shakespeare's words to life, and their ability to transport audiences to another time and place.

The documentary is visually stunning, with breathtaking shots of the RSC's performances at the theater and on location. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of capturing the drama, beauty, and spectacle of live theater.

Overall, Living Shakespeare - A Year With the Royal Shakespeare Company is a must-watch for anyone interested in theater, the arts, or the works of William Shakespeare. It is a fascinating journey into the world of the RSC and the extraordinary performers who make up one of the most renowned theater companies in the world.