National Theatre Live: The Corn Is Green

Synopsis

National Theatre Live: The Corn Is Green, released in 2022, is a compelling stage drama featuring Nicola Walker in the lead role. The play, originally by Emlyn Williams, is set in a Welsh mining town in the early 20th century and tells the inspiring story of a determined schoolteacher who recognizes the untapped potential of a young coal miner. Through her unwavering dedication, she sets out to transform his life and challenge the limitations imposed by their socio-economic environment. The production, broadcasted live from London's National Theatre, captures the emotional depth and social commentary of the original play, highlighting themes of education, class struggle, and personal empowerment. Nicola Walker’s powerful performance brings nuance and warmth to the character, making this live theatrical experience both poignant and uplifting.

Cast

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  Nicola Walker

  Miss Moffat

• Adam Baker

  Glyn Thomas

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  Saffron Coomber

  Bessie Watty

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  Gareth David-Lloyd

  Emlyn Williams

• Iwan Davies

  Morgan Evans

• Sion Emlyn

  Will Hughes

Reviews

Critics have generally praised National Theatre Live: The Corn Is Green, particularly highlighting Nicola Walker’s commanding performance. On Rotten Tomatoes, while the film version of the stage production does not hold a conventional rating, audience feedback on National Theatre Live streams has been very positive, often citing the emotional intensity and fidelity to the original play's themes. The Guardian commended Walker's portrayal as 'a tour de force that breathes new life into this classic play,' emphasizing how the production retains the theatrical power even through a screen adaptation. The Independent also noted the set design and direction as 'thoughtfully restrained, allowing the performances to truly shine.' However, some reviewers, including a few IMDb users, felt the pacing was slow, which is common for filmed stage plays where dramatic pauses and dialogue-heavy scenes dominate. Overall, Metacritic does not provide a score due to the niche nature of theatrical broadcasts, but the production is regarded as a high-quality recording likely to please theatre enthusiasts and new audiences alike who appreciate British drama and period pieces. The blend of classic storytelling with modern performance brings a timeless narrative vividly into the present day.

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