King Lear 1975
Jonathan Miller's 1975 take on Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear strips the classic down to its emotional core, focusing on power, betrayal, and the fragile bonds of family.
Director: Jonathan Miller
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is King Lear (1975) about?
An aging king divides his kingdom among his daughters based on their declarations of love, but when the youngest refuses to flatter him, he banishes her and faces the cruel consequences of his rash decision. The story follows Lear's descent into madness as his kingdom collapses under the greed of his elder daughters.
Who directed King Lear?
Jonathan Miller directed this gripping 1975 adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy.
Who stars in King Lear?
Michael Hordern leads the cast as King Lear, joined by Sarah Badel, Penelope Wilton, Angela Down, and Frank Middlemass.
Is King Lear (1975) worth watching?
With its intense performances and stark direction, this adaptation offers a compelling take on Shakespeare's classic. While it may lack the grandeur of some versions, its minimalist approach makes the tragedy feel deeply personal and impactful.
How long is King Lear?
King Lear (1975) has a runtime of 120 minutes.
About King Lear (1975) — A Stark Retelling of Shakespeare's Tragedy
Jonathan Miller's 1975 take on Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear strips the classic down to its emotional core, focusing on power, betrayal, and the fragile bonds of family. Michael Hordern delivers a heartbreaking performance as the aging monarch who divides his kingdom based on hollow flattery, only to face the icy cruelty of his eldest daughters. The stark contrast between Cordelia's honesty and the manipulative Goneril and Regan drives the story into a spiral of mistrust and vengeance. With its stark black-and-white visuals and minimalist staging, this adaptation amplifies the play's themes of aging, madness, and the cost of blind pride.
Penelope Wilton and Angela Down shine as the ruthless Goneril and Regan, while Frank Middlemass and Anthony Nicholls anchor the supporting cast with gravitas. Miller's direction leans into the stark, almost clinical atmosphere, making the emotional devastation feel even more raw and immediate. A must-watch for Shakespeare enthusiasts and fans of intense, character-driven drama.