Is King Lear Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, King Lear is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 120 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
King Lear Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1975, King Lear enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on King Lear, old and tired, divides his kingdom among his daughters, giving great importance to their protestations of love for him. Under the direction of Jonathan Miller, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Michael Hordern. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, King Lear offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, King Lear resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, King Lear is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of King Lear centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. King Lear, old and tired, divides his kingdom among his daughters, giving great importance to their protestations of love for him. When Cordelia, youngest and most honest, refuses to idly flatter the old man in return for favor, he banishes her and turns for support to his remaining daughters. But Goneril and Regan have no love for him and instead plot to take all his power from him. In a parallel, Lear's loyal courtier Gloucester favors his illegitimate son Edmund after being told lies about his faithful son Edgar. Madness and tragedy befall both ill-starred fathers. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1975 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of King Lear has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a King Lear sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for King Lear (1975): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
King Lear has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, King Lear stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1975 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is King Lear movie hit or flop?
King Lear is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is King Lear worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, King Lear may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch King Lear online?
King Lear may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
More with Michael Hordern
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is King Lear movie hit or flop?
King Lear is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is King Lear worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, King Lear may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch King Lear online?
King Lear may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of King Lear?
King Lear is a Drama movie that follows: King Lear, old and tired, divides his kingdom among his daughters, giving great importance to their protestations of love for him. When Cordelia, youngest and most honest, refuses to idly flatter the ...
Is King Lear family friendly?
King Lear is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is King Lear available in?
King Lear is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
King Lear, old and tired, divides his kingdom among his daughters, giving great importance to their protestations of love for him. When Cordelia, youngest and most honest, refuses to idly flatter the old man in return for favor, he banishes her and turns for support to his remaining daughters. But Goneril and Regan have no love for him and instead plot to take all his power from him. In a parallel, Lear's loyal courtier Gloucester favors his illegitimate son Edmund after being told lies about his faithful son Edgar. Madness and tragedy befall both ill-starred fathers.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.