The Plays of William Shakespeare - King Lear

Rating:
Summary: Weak In Every Area Of Production
Review: Having viewed eight different productions of KING LEAR in this past month, I must say this version is the worst! Unfortunatelly, this version is quite often promoted as a production that English or Shakespeare students can easily understand (apparently because the actors perform the roles without an English accent). To quote from the back cover: "Unfamiliar English accents, so prevalent in most Shakespearean productions, are absent from this series. English and drama teachers, as well as the typical playgoer, will find this feature of tremendous value." In my opinion, english and drama students, as well as the typical playgoer will be completely bored with this feature! The major falt must be placed on the actors who seem to simply walk through thier roles without any passion whatever. The director must also take most of the blame for not getting better performances from his actors. In short, this production looks like a "made for television" item that lacks great acting or direction. Mediocre all around! I feel sorry for the student who has to sit through this! For those others who can...avoid it!!!