Movie spotlight
As You Like It
One of the earliest hits for the newly established RSC, Michael Elliott’s sparkling version of Shakespeare's comedy is still remembered with joy by a generation of theatre-goers. The design was dominated by a huge oak tree, but the production is most memorable for Vanessa Redgrave’s luminous Rosalind, supported by Max Adrian and Ian Bannen.
Insights
Plot Summary
This BBC television adaptation of William Shakespeare's pastoral comedy follows Rosalind, the daughter of a banished duke, who flees into the Forest of Arden disguised as a young man. There, she encounters her disguised father, her banished uncle, and the man she loves, Orlando, leading to a series of romantic entanglements, mistaken identities, and witty exchanges.
Critical Reception
As a television adaptation, "As You Like It" (1963) was well-received for its faithful rendition of Shakespeare's text and its strong performances, particularly from Dorothy Tutin and Christopher Plummer. It is often cited as a notable example of early British television drama's ability to adapt classic literature.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its faithful adaptation of Shakespeare's play.
Commended for the strong performances of its lead actors.
Considered a solid early example of British television theater.
Google audience: Information not available for this specific television production.
Fun Fact
This production was part of the BBC's ambitious effort to bring the entire Shakespearean canon to television, making the plays more accessible to a wider audience.
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