Coriolanus Poster

Coriolanus 1979

★ 3.52 votes160 min📅 1979-03-31

Coriolanus (1979) brings Shakespeare's gripping tragedy to life through a landmark New York Shakespeare Festival stage production, directed by Wilford Leach.

Director: Wilford Leach

Cast

Frank Adu
Junius Brutus
Gloria Foster
Gloria Foster
Volumnia
CCH Pounder
CCH Pounder
Valeria
Earle Hyman
Earle Hyman
Cominius
Roscoe Orman
Roscoe Orman
Adrian
Michele Shay
Michele Shay
Virgilia
Maurice Woods
Agrippa
Keith David
Keith David
Aedile / Roman Citizen / Volscian Citizen
Castulo Guerra
Castulo Guerra
Senator / Nicanor / Officer
Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington
Roman Soldier / Volscian Soldier

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Coriolanus (1979) about?

This 1979 film adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy follows a fierce Roman general, Coriolanus, who is exiled from his beloved city after clashing with the volatile public. Consumed by vengeance, he unites with his former enemy to lead an attack on Rome, forcing him to confront the cost of his pride and the people he once protected.

Who directed Coriolanus?

Wilford Leach directed Coriolanus (1979), bringing a dynamic stage sensibility to this historic production.

Who stars in Coriolanus?

The film features standout performances from Frank Adu, Gloria Foster, CCH Pounder, Earle Hyman, and Roscoe Orman in key roles.

Is Coriolanus (1979) worth watching?

Though unrated on IMDb, Coriolanus (1979) offers a compelling blend of Shakespearean drama and cultural significance with its all-black and Hispanic cast. Its historical production value and emotional depth make it a worthwhile watch for fans of classic theater and period films.

How long is Coriolanus?

Coriolanus (1979) runs for 160 minutes, offering a comprehensive and immersive viewing experience.

About Coriolanus (1979) — Historic Shakespeare Stage Production with All-Black and Hispanic Cast

Coriolanus (1979) brings Shakespeare's gripping tragedy to life through a landmark New York Shakespeare Festival stage production, directed by Wilford Leach. This powerful adaptation features an all-black and Hispanic cast, a bold creative choice by producer Joseph Papp that opened doors for minority actors while staying true to the play's themes of power, revenge, and political betrayal. Set in ancient Rome, the story follows a proud warrior banished from his city, who forges an uneasy alliance with his former enemy to exact brutal vengeance—only to confront the devastating consequences of his choices.

Blending historical drama with raw emotional intensity, Coriolanus (1979) captures the timeless struggle between loyalty and ambition against the backdrop of public upheaval. The film's stark, theatrical staging amplifies the Shakespearean grandeur, making it a standout for history buffs and theater lovers alike.