King Lear 2000
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Eugenia Educational Foundation
Directed by Ada & Doug Craniford
VHS, color, 57 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Literature, Drama, Theatre, Language
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Charles Burkart, Head, Audiovisual Library, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WVKing Lear is a foolish, vain old king who gives away his kingdom to his flattering, ungrateful older daughters. He ignores the earnest, truthful remarks of his youngest daughter, and disinherits her. This condensed version of King Lear is part of Bullfrog Film's Taste of Shakespeare Series. These films summarize key Shakespearian scenes, and reveal the relationships between the main characters in the plays. The Earl of Kent (Eric Weinthal) is both the narrator and commentator in this King Lear.
King Lear features professional actors from Canada, who give a fine, spirited performance. The production has the feel of an actual stage performance, even though some on-location shots were used. Camera work is mostly conventional, but not distracting. Color and film quality are generally excellent. The actors enunciate very clearly (no distracting accents) and sound quality is very good.
This film provides an excellent, in-depth introduction to King Lear. In addition, Bullfrog film's King Lear helps clarify plot twists and character relationships that may leave some younger readers baffled. Junior High and High School classes should find this version of King Lear particularly useful. It provides a useful background to reading or performing this complex play in class. Highly recommended.