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 is a solid production. '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 productions this production still has a lot to like and will be of real interest for anybody interested in seeing it in historical form.
A lot is good here. It looks great, with sumptuous costumes and atmospheric sets and lighting. Enhanced by the intimate but never claustrophobic photography, which also captures the authentic and interactive audience reaction very well. The music isn't obtrusive and fits well within the period. The stage direction is tasteful and also accessible, it didn't have a try too hard quality on the whole and the spirit of the play is evident throughout.
It, the stage direction that is, is also quite thoughtful. Loved the sensual wooing scene, and it is one of the better interpretations personally seen of that scene. Some of the comedy is funny. The performances are uniformly good, with Jamie Parker making for a conflicted, energetic and nuanced Hal/Henry, it was genius having him back after the wonderful 'Henry IV' productions. Olivia Ross is another strong standout and Pistol is a lot of fun.
It is not a perfect production of 'Henry V' though. Did find the St Crispin's Day speech a little too restrained, then it may be just me having a slightly stereotypical view of what a certain speech etc should sound like from a profound past experience.
Did find that there was a little too much emphasis on the comedy, and while some of it was funny other parts felt forced and try too hard-like.
Concluding, very impresisive if not mind blowing production. 7/10.
