National Theatre Live: King Lear
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71% Critic Match

National Theatre Live: King Lear

7.1 / 10 2014 3h 25mNR English
Drama

Storyline

An aged king decides to divide his kingdom between his three daughters, according to which of them is most eloquent in praising him. His favourite, Cordelia, says nothing. Simon Russell Beale, whose recent appearances at the National include Timon of Athens and Collaborators, takes the title role in Shakespeare’s tragedy.

Cast & Crew

Simon Russell Beale

Simon Russell Beale

Lear, King of Britain

Lead
Kate Fleetwood

Kate Fleetwood

Goneril

Anna Maxwell Martin

Anna Maxwell Martin

Regan

Olivia Vinall

Olivia Vinall

Cordelia

Richard Clothier

Richard Clothier

The Duke of Albany

Michael Nardone

Michael Nardone

The Duke of Cornwall

Stephen Boxer

Stephen Boxer

The Earl of Gloucester

Stanley Townsend

Stanley Townsend

The Earl of Kent

What People Are Saying

4.0
A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Robin Lough's vision lands with breathtaking precision.
Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
4.0
Every frame feels alive. National Theatre Live: King Lear is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.
Anthony Lane, The New Yorker