Richard II

Synopsis

Richard II (1982) is a film adaptation of William Shakespeare's historical play, featuring David Birney in the titular role. The story chronicles the tumultuous reign of King Richard II of England, exploring themes of power, legitimacy, and the divine right of kings. As political intrigue and betrayal unfold, Richard faces challenges to his authority from noble rivals, leading to his ultimate downfall. The film captures the poetic language and dramatic intensity of Shakespeare's work, with a focus on character psychology and the consequences of leadership decisions. This adaptation presents a faithful and contemplative interpretation of the classic tragedy.

Cast

• 

  David Birney

  Richard II

• 

  Paul Shenar

  Bolingbroke

• 

  Peter MacLean

  Duke of York

• 

  DeVeren Bookwalter

  Duke of Aumerle

• John Devlin

  Earl of Northumberland

• 

  Jeff Pomerantz

  Thomas Mowbray

Reviews

Critical reception of Richard II (1982) has been mixed, reflecting the challenges of adapting Shakespeare’s works for the screen. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.4 out of 10, suggesting a moderate reception from viewers. Some critics appreciated the film’s dedication to Shakespeare’s original text and David Birney’s committed performance as Richard II, noting the careful attention to period details and language. However, others found the pacing slow and the production values modest, which may detract from its appeal to a broader audience. The film has not garnered ratings on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, indicating limited contemporary critical attention or wide release. Overall, while this adaptation is respected for staying true to Shakespeare’s vision and appealing to enthusiasts of classical theater, it may not fully engage casual viewers or those seeking a more dynamic cinematic experience.