BBC Television Shakespeare: Henry V

Produced by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), the adaption of William Shakespeare's "Henry V" is uniquely crafted in the 'BBC Television Shakespeare' series, originally aired on 23rd December 1979. The movie offers an authoritative rendering of one of the Bard's lauded history plays. Attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to honor the words of Shakespeare are the primary distinctions of this particular adaptation.

Directed by David Giles, the adaptation faithfully explores Shakespeare’s historical play through a lens of authenticity to provide its audience with a true representation of the classic work. The film revolves around the titular character Henry V, played by David Gwillim, whose journey from a reluctant prince to a contemplative Shakespearean hero is brilliantly portrayed.

"King Henry V" begins with Henry, the young king of England, contemplating the ethical implications of a potentially unavoidable war. He is visited by the Archbishop of Canterbury, who invokes a complicated interpretation of Salic law, asserting Henry’s legitimate claim to the French throne. Subsequently, an insult from the Dauphin, the French king’s son, rouses Henry to assert his claim with full force and sends the nation to war with France.

The film does an apt job of showing the manifestation of justice, war, leadership and the camaraderie of men in uniform. Still, at its core, the story is about a young king coming into his own. It exhibits his multifaceted personality—sometimes struggling with moral dilemmas, sometimes jubilant in victory, and sometimes grappling with the solitude of leadership.

Henry V's Shakespearean soliloquies are brought to life by Gwillim's skilled performance. The "once more unto the breach" and "St. Crispin's Day" speeches are delivered with the requisite gusto, showcasing not only the character's determination and resilience but also Gwillim's talent as an actor. Gwillim’s performance successfully captures the complexities and tensions within his character. The other supporting cast members display a similar commitment to their roles, adding further depth to the narrative.

Much of the production values and aesthetics of the film reaffirm its intent to stay as close to the original material as possible. From medium-wide shots that mimic a stage to the richness of the Elizabethan costumes, the movie does well in its attempt to preserve the essence of the original play. The use of minimal sets focuses attention on the actors and their words, in keeping with the spirit of the source material. The film's atmosphere, although sometimes lacking big-budget polish, serves to highlight the human drama and interpersonal dynamics that are at the heart of "Henry V."

From the robust speeches to the intimate and quieter moments of introspection, everything required from a Shakespearean drama is found in this film. The movie aptly explores the dimensions of Henry as a king, a man, a warrior, and a leader, serving to highlight richer insights into this complex character. The spirited renditions of Shakespeare's poetry and the earnest performances of the actors bring the text to life in a way that both newcomers and long-time fans of the Bard's work can appreciate.

Overall, the 'BBC Television Shakespeare: Henry V' is a testament to the timelessness of Shakespeare’s works. It may not have the grandeur and spectacle that some may envision for such an historically significant and emotional story, but its dedication to authenticity shines through in the performances and the overall tone of the film. For those who appreciate the beauty of Shakespeare's language and the depth of his characters, this film is a must-watch. It is a fitting tribute to one of Shakespeare's most celebrated historical plays, providing a thoughtful exploration of war, leadership, and the complexity of human nature.