Of the two parts of 'Henry IV', the second part is the better one of the two in my opinion. Do like both parts very much, and their mix of comedy and drama are wonderfully done. The momentum at times is perhaps stronger in Part 1 in the latter stages (the climax namely) but have always found the comedy funnier and the drama more poignant in Part 2, which is not quite as much of a slow starter and builds upon the first part's themes but in a more unsettling and cynical way at times.
While Shakespeare Globe's production of 'Henry IV Part 1' is absolutely terrific, to me their production of Part 2 is even better. Some of it is down to the second part being superior. It has all of the strengths of the production of Part 1, while doing many things even better. While not quite as good as the 'The Hollow Crown' adaptation on its own terms, although this is more faithful perhaps, very like with Part 1 'Henry IV Part 2' is still terrific.
There is very little wrong here, but maybe it does start on the slightly static side.
Everything else though is done outstandingly. Production values are both atmospheric and beautifully detailed. Really liked the intimacy of the photography, which makes one feel like they are there while not trying to do too much, while the audience interaction is fun. The staging is very absorbing and energetic, which is also faithful and in good taste. It was nice to see more emphasis on the comedy, as both parts of 'Henry IV' can risk being overly serious, which is not over-played and the cynicism is unsettling. Falstaff is riotously funny without mugging. The drama is even more moving and human here and the political elements aren't laid on too thick.
As said, many things are even better here. Oliver Cotton makes an even bigger impression here, and it does help that Henry's role is bigger and expanded upon and his performance in the latter stages is movingly anguished. His chemistry with Jamie Parker's Hal is more convincing here, the father and son reconciliation scene seeing an ailing king and a rising prince did bring tears to my eyes and is truly moving.
Roger Allam has lost none of his magnificence as Falstaff, he shows no signs of being taxed physically and is very funny and also heartfelt. Parker shows more maturity here with Hal growing hugely as a character in Part 2. William Gaunt's Justice Shallow is a major high point, amusing and authoritative. Hal and Falstaff's relationship is again nailed, especially as Hal starts to turn and eventually turns his back on his indiscretions.
Concluding, wonderful. 9/10.
