Twelfth Night
Viola and Sebastian are lookalike twins, separated by a shipwreck. Viola lands in Illyria, where she disguises herself like her brother and goes into the service of the Duke Orsino. Orsino sends her to help him woo the Lady Olivia, who doesn't want the Duke, but finds that she likes the new messenger the Duke's sending. Then, of course, Viola's brother shows up, and merry hell breaks loose. Meanwhile, Olivia's uncle and his cohorts are trying to find some way to get back at Olivia's officious majordomo, Malvolio.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the land of Illyria, Viola is shipwrecked and believes her twin brother Sebastian is dead. She disguises herself as a young man named Cesario and enters the service of Duke Orsino. Orsino is in love with the Countess Olivia, who has sworn off men. As Cesario, Viola falls in love with Orsino, creating a complex web of unrequited affections and mistaken identities.
Critical Reception
This television adaptation of Shakespeare's classic comedy was generally well-received for its faithful portrayal of the source material and its strong performances, particularly from Victoria Tennant. It is often noted as a solid, if not groundbreaking, rendition of the play for the small screen.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its adherence to Shakespearean text.
- Victoria Tennant's performance as Viola/Cesario is a highlight.
- A competent television production of a beloved play.
Google audience: Audience reception details for this specific 1980 television adaptation are not readily available.
Fun Fact
This adaptation was part of a series of BBC Shakespeare productions, aiming to bring the Bard's works to a wider television audience.
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