Trevor Nunn's production of Othello transfers here to the screen in one of the best versions of the play ever filmed - perhaps the best of them all.
In the title role is opera singer Willard White, who imbues the character of Othello with just the right mix of arrogance, courage, pride, jealousy, passion, and - given that this is the 'tragedy of Othello' vulnerability. As Iago is Ian McKellen, in one of his best performances. His Iago is pure poison in his asides and his contempt of others, his smiling, jovial exterior hiding the viper within. Imogen Stubbs is a delicate, three-dimensional Desdemona, letting the viewer sympathise as events in the war zone start to crumble around her.
Often the supporting cast are a let-down, but not here - Sean Baker is an excellent Cassio, Michael Grandage (now better known as a stage director than an actor) is probably the best Roderigo for years, Zoe Wanamaker shines as Emilia, Marsha Hunt is suitably flirtatious as Bianca, and Clive Swift and John Burgess are memorable in smaller roles.
With an American Civil War setting, this Othello nevertheless manages to be relevant to the modern day. In the oft-told tale of jealousy and the false friend, the viewer is instantly sucked in and reminded of parallels in the world outside, from the affairs of state down to the corporate boardroom.
And Act V, especially the last couple of scenes, are truly excellent. This Othello is definitely worth your time - at well over three hours it does not skimp on the text and it is a dynamic and clever production.
In the title role is opera singer Willard White, who imbues the character of Othello with just the right mix of arrogance, courage, pride, jealousy, passion, and - given that this is the 'tragedy of Othello' vulnerability. As Iago is Ian McKellen, in one of his best performances. His Iago is pure poison in his asides and his contempt of others, his smiling, jovial exterior hiding the viper within. Imogen Stubbs is a delicate, three-dimensional Desdemona, letting the viewer sympathise as events in the war zone start to crumble around her.
Often the supporting cast are a let-down, but not here - Sean Baker is an excellent Cassio, Michael Grandage (now better known as a stage director than an actor) is probably the best Roderigo for years, Zoe Wanamaker shines as Emilia, Marsha Hunt is suitably flirtatious as Bianca, and Clive Swift and John Burgess are memorable in smaller roles.
With an American Civil War setting, this Othello nevertheless manages to be relevant to the modern day. In the oft-told tale of jealousy and the false friend, the viewer is instantly sucked in and reminded of parallels in the world outside, from the affairs of state down to the corporate boardroom.
And Act V, especially the last couple of scenes, are truly excellent. This Othello is definitely worth your time - at well over three hours it does not skimp on the text and it is a dynamic and clever production.