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.
There are a number of fine productions of 'Richard II' available, with the BBC Television Shakespeare, 'The Hollow Crown' and Royal Shakespeare Company productions (National Theatre Live's was disappointing) all being outstanding (haven't seen the Ian McKellen production). This Shakespeare Globe production of 'Richard Ii' is pretty much on their level, it is not one of my favourites of the Shakespeare Globe productions available on DVD but it is to me proof that the company's reputation as one of the leading Shakespeare companies is richly deserved.
Did find the scene where the nobles hurl their gages at each other a bit too overblown and veering into absurdity for personal tastes.
Everything else was fantastic. Have nothing to complain about the performances, even the very different interpretation of Richard from Charles Edwards, bringing a more humorous touch and indifference to a role usually played seriously. David Stuzarker is ruthless to dangerous effect as Bolingbroke while not coming over as pantomimic, he does bring intensity and nuance enough. William Chubb's York is good fun and Anneika Rose manages to make a usually very underwritten character complex in a spirited and dignified turn. The best performance comes from a truly moving William Gaunt, have never seen the valedictory speech delivered so powerfully and Gaunt's grief is tear inducing.
Spot on too is the character interaction, especially the violent tension between Richard and Bolingbrooke where the tension does chill without being overplayed. Simon Godwin's stage direction is always tasteful, everything made sense, it isn't too safe, the drama has the right amount of the wide range of emotions and all the different touches worked. Not just how Richard is interpreted but even the staging and decision of the coronation chosen to preface the action comes off really well, it could have been potentially distracting and gimmicky but was quite shrewd and a good way of setting things up.
Production values are elegant and atmospheric with nothing coming over as jarring. The intimate photography makes the viewer feel like they are part of the action. 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.
Overall, excellent. 9/10.
