Will Shakespeare
Will Shakespeare, also known as Life of Shakespeare and William Shakespeare: His Life & Times, was a 1978 historical drama series created and written by John Mortimer. Broadcast in six parts, the series is a dramatisation of the life and times of the great poet William Shakespeare played by Tim Curry, and was co-produced by Lew Grade's ATV and RAI and distributed internationally by ITC. The two production companies had collaborated successfully before on Jesus of Nazareth the previous year.
Insights
Plot Summary
This six-part British television drama chronicles the life and career of William Shakespeare, from his early days in Stratford-upon-Avon to his rise as the preeminent playwright of the Elizabethan era. The series explores his personal relationships, his creative process, and the challenges he faced in the competitive world of London theatre. It offers a fictionalized yet grounded portrayal of the man behind the immortal works.
Critical Reception
As a television drama from the late 1970s, 'Will Shakespeare' received a generally positive reception for its ambitious scope and its detailed depiction of the period. It was praised for its historical accuracy and the performances of its cast, though some viewers found its pacing deliberate. The series is remembered as a significant effort to bring the life of Shakespeare to a wider television audience.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its comprehensive and detailed portrayal of Shakespeare's life.
- The performances, particularly from the lead actors, were a highlight.
- Appreciated for its historical authenticity and exploration of Elizabethan theatre.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific 1978 television series is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The series was directed by multiple directors, with each of the six episodes helmed by a different person, including Simon Gray and Barry Davis.
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