Although 'Richard II' may not be my favourite Shakespeare play, it does deserve to be performed a lot more. It's thematically fascinating, especially from a political standpoint, has great characterisation (especially the titular character and Bolingbroke) and while some may find the verse heavy dialogue too rambling it's still distinctive Shakespeare. It has been performed well many times and of the filmed adaptations 'The Hollow Crown' version is particularly stunning.
So is this 2013 Royal Shakespeare Company production, every bit as brilliant in its own way, with a great cast at the top of their game and in a production that's intriguing, entertaining and accessible. Of the filmed productions from the company of Shakespeare's plays in the past fifteen years or so, this production of 'Richard II' is one of the standouts and is proof of why 'Richard II' deserves more recognition (regardless of how it compares to his other work, which is actually not unfavourably).
Visually, 'Richard II' is very well done. The period costumes are very elegant, as is all the not too elaborate production design. There is back projection but it never looks cheap and is tastefully used, not done in a gimmicky way or in a way that distracts. The lighting is very atmospheric and the quality of the video directing makes one feel that they're there. Really liked the music (having a choral background the style appealed to me immensely), how well it fitted and how it was used. It was not over-used and didn't over-explain or over-emphasise, nor did it again feel like a gimmick.
Have no qualms with Shakespeare's dialogue, personally have never found it rambling and the wide range of emotions and intrigue still remain. It may alienate those not familiar with it beforehand, but with more familiarity of the play it shouldn't be as alienating. The staging is always done in good taste, no pointless or perplexing touches, and is always compelling. A great job is done making the drama coherent and in a way that would appeal to modern audiences without resorting to any dumbing down. The interaction between Richard and Bolingbroke is particularly well done.
David Tennant is mesmerising in the title role and to me it's one of his better performances for the Royal Shakespeare Company. He is especially good in the Westminster deposition scene, and there are even little things throughout that makes one go weak at the knees (i.e. the piercing stare given to Mowbray). Also spot on is Nigel Lindsay's dangerous but also oddly likeable Bolingbroke, that sounds oxymoronic but it's a complex character performed with complexity.
Oliver Ford Davies is amusing and moving as York and Michael Pennington's rage and grief is performed beautifully with intensity and pathos. Jane Lapotaire truly haunts and moves in her crucial scene.
Altogether, wonderful production. 10/10
