Broadcast from London’s West End, see Ian McKellen’s extraordinarily moving portrayal of King Lear on the big screen.
Chichester Festival Theatre’s production received five-star reviews for its sell-out run, and transferred to the West End for a limited season. Jonathan Munby directs this nuanced and powerful contemporary retelling of Shakespeare’s tender, moving and shocking play.
Considered by many to be the greatest tragedy ever written, “King Lear” sees two aging fathers — one a King, one his courtier — reject the children who truly love them. Their blindness unleashes a tornado of pitiless ambition and treachery, as family and state are plunged into a violent power struggle with bitter ends.
Ian McKellen gives a hugely acclaimed performance as Shakespeare’s great King. While he is more widely known for his roles in blockbuster films, McKellen’s acting career began on the stage and he has given iconic Shakespeare performances throughout his career. “King Lear” is a chance to see one of the finest actors of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries performing live.
“Ian McKellen reigns supreme in this triumphant production.” — Daily Telegraph
“Ian McKellen adds to the roster of his greatest achievements with this extraordinarily moving portrayal of King Lear.” — Independent
“Ian McKellen's detailed, intelligent performance is a triumph.” — Evening Standard
“This King Lear is an intensely moving experience.” — The Stage