Movie Description
Kenneth Branagh makes his directorial debut and also plays the title role in HENRY V, a film that began a resurgence of interest in films of Shakespeare's plays. Henry is a young king seeking a way to make his mark on history. He gets his chance when he learns he can make a legal claim to the throne of France. He does, and arrives in France with a small army that soon meets with violent resistance from the French. The film follows Henry and his men through the brutality of fifteenth century warfare as the ragtag band confronts heavy opposition and their own destinies on a rainy French battlefield. The film expertly balances the thrilling heroics of the battle sequences with the painful and complex reactions of men who are sometimes unsure of the justice of their cause. True to Shakespeare's original text, an unnamed Chorus (Derek Jacobi) appears periodically, filling in details and offering a running commentary on the action. HENRY V is a rousing, fascinating film about the power of courage and the price of glory.
| Credits | | Cast: | Emma Thompson, Ian Holm, Judi Dench, Paul Scofield, Robbie Coltrane |
Notes
Theatrical release: December 1989.
Filmed at Lee Shepperton Studios, England.
HENRY V was actor-stage director Kenneth Branagh's film directing debut.
Derek Jacobi (Chorus) would also appear as Claudius in Branagh's HAMLET.
HENRY V was Christian Bale's next screen appearance after his critically acclaimed role in Steven Spielberg's EMPIRE OF THE SUN.
Editorial Reviews
"...[Branagh] has made a fine, rousing new English film adaptation....Psychological heft and intellectual weight..."
Canby
"...[Branagh's] skill and passion equal his daring. This thrilling new version of the play complements rather than challenges Olivier's....It's a pleasure to welcome this young lion and his company's splendid HENRY to their ranks..."
Los Angeles Times - Michael Wilmington (11/08/1989)
Awards
1989Academy AwardsBest Costume Design
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