Is National Theatre Live: King Lear Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2018)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of National Theatre Live: King Lear (2018), audiences are invited back into the world of Drama. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Considered by many to be the greatest tragedy ever written, King Lear sees two ageing fathers – one a King, one his courtier – reject the children who truly love them. Their blindness unleashes a tornado of pitiless ambition and treachery, as family and state are plunged into a violent power struggle with bitter ends."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In National Theatre Live: King Lear, Ian McKellen delivers a performance that anchors the emotional weight of the film. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Drama. The cinematography and score further amplify the experience, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is National Theatre Live: King Lear worth your time? If you appreciate Drama films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2018, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, National Theatre Live: King Lear is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 227 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.