Ever since studying 'Macbeth' and 'Twelfth Night' in Year 6 (consisting mostly of reading the text out aloud and analysing it), there has been high appreciation, and even love, for William Shakespeare's plays and his mastery of language. 'Henry V' is not one of my favourites of his, though am not sure whether it would be counted as a lesser play in my book because it does have a lot of powerful text (the Crispin's Day speech being one of the bard's finest) and an interesting titular character.
This 2022 National Theatre Live production is a solid one, though very uneven with one half being better than the other. 'Henry V' has been adapted and captured on film/transmissions (including Olivier's, Branagh's, BBC Television Shakespeare's and 'The Hollow Crown's', all recommended by the way) a sizeable amount, mostly between very well and brilliantly, and while not one of the best or most consistent productions of the play there is still a lot to like here.
Am going to begin with what doesn't quite work. The first half for me was over-stuffed and tries to do too much, it is certainly never dull but with so much going on on stage and in the visuals with not much breathing space keeping up was not always easy.
Did feel too that there was an over reliance of video screens, the projections are actually very visually striking and colourful and do help make the setting more interesting than it is. They are however used too much, even in scenes where they are not really needed like the more intimate moments, and distract from the drama. This is also present in the music, which is brilliant on its own and is powerfully used in the second half but again it could have been used less and can get over-dramatic.
However, a lot is good. The acting is exemplary with Kit Harrington bringing a more bloodthirsty approach to the title role than most interpreters in the role and it is chilling to watch, while also conveying Henry's matured charisma and conflicted edge with energy, intensity and nuance. Annoushka Lucas is touching and her chemistry with Harrington sizzles. Plus there is a refreshingly arch and ironic Chorus in Millicent Wong. Dramatically, the drama always engages despite trying too hard in the first half. Have not seen war portrayed this uncompromisingly on stage for a long time, and Bardolph's hanging really disturbs. The production also features one of the better versions of the Crispin's Day speech, which has intense authority and not done too intimately or too politely.
Even when modern dress, the costumes, camouflage uniforms covered in dust generally, are still tasteful while showing brilliantly how far from glamorous war was. The sets are simple but not too much or over grim and the lighting is excellent, especially in the hanging scene where it is very eerie. There are some bold touches, with the soldiers really looking like barbarians in a way not seen before and the intriguing use of French in the dialogue that few productions of 'Henry V' incorporate. The second half is better than the first, really appreciated the stripping back and the more relaxed pace. Also loved the playful interpretation between Katherine and Alice.
Concluding, uneven but with a lot to admire. 7/10.
