Branagh Theatre Live: The Winter's Tale

Judi Dench was terrific, as were actors in some of the smaller roles. Branagh must stop directing himself - he has no objectivity where his own acting is concerned. Hermione sounded like she was just reciting her lines - the Emilia was much more memorable in three lines.

Lighting might have been okay for stage, but for film it was woefully inadequate - when there was enough light to see the actors, there were shadows cast on the scrim. Costumes were mediocre and Beyonce's folding fake baby bump was more realistic-looking than Hermione's. Ancient Sicily updated to early 20th century didn't really work and the combination of the German Christmas tree and discussions of the Oracle of Delphi was a little jarring.

I really, really wanted to enjoy this production but there were just too many problems.