National Theatre Live: A Taste of Honey
National Theatre Live: A Taste of Honey

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National Theatre Live: A Taste of Honey

2014
Movie
125 min
English

When her mother Helen runs off with a car salesman, feisty teenager Jo takes up with Jimmie, a sailor who promises to marry her, before he heads for the seas. Art student Geof moves in and assumes the role of a surrogate parent until, misguidedly, he sends for Helen and their unconventional setup unravels.

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Director: Tony RichardsonGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

This archive recording captures a 1960 production of Shelagh Delaney's groundbreaking play, 'A Taste of Honey.' The story follows Jo, a working-class teenager in Salford, as she navigates a difficult relationship with her bohemian mother and explores burgeoning romantic entanglements with both a Black sailor and a sensitive art student. The play offers a raw and honest look at class, sexuality, and societal expectations in post-war Britain.

Critical Reception

The original 1960 stage production was a critical triumph, lauded for its frank portrayal of working-class life and its challenging themes. The 2014 archive recording allows modern audiences to experience this seminal piece of British theatre, preserving its raw energy and social commentary.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unflinching realism and authentic dialogue.

  • Recognized for its significant contribution to post-war British drama.

  • Celebrated for its exploration of complex social and personal themes.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific archive recording is not readily available, but the original play is highly regarded for its groundbreaking nature.

Awards & Accolades

The original 1961 film adaptation won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The play itself was a major critical success upon its debut.

Fun Fact

Shelagh Delaney wrote 'A Taste of Honey' when she was just 18 years old, making her one of the youngest playwrights to achieve such widespread acclaim.

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