National Theatre Live: Vanya

I am torn about this version. Yes, Andrew Scott once again proves himself to be an excellent actor. However, the manner in which he portrays the characters-through endless mannerisms and antics-seems out of place to me. It cheapens the story and the heartbreak of the characters' lives, without adding any depth or additional layers to the adaptation. Some of the jokes and the aforementioned physical comedy make the characters so cartoonish by the end that the final scene-which, in the book or in a classical adaptation, should tear your soul apart-fails to have the emotional impact it deserves.

I think it's a nice adaptation to watch (just not for the first time) if only to witness Andrew Scott's acting prowess. Besides, it's interesting to see the story through this director's eyes. Personally, I don't regret watching it, but I have no desire to see it again.

It's always rewarding when talented actors and skilled direction come together to bring a concept to life.

Andrew Scott's ability to embody various emotions and inject humour into his performance while keeping the audience engaged is truly commendable.

The captivating emotions Andrew Scott brings to each character make it easy to see his portrayal as the norm. His ability to breathe life into multiple roles is truly impressive, creating a seamless and engaging experience that draws viewers into the rich tapestry of emotions woven throughout the performance.

Translating the theatrical experience to the screen successfully adds another layer of appreciation. It's a testament to both the actor's skill and the team's efforts in capturing the essence of live theatre.

Thank you to all involved who brought this production to the screen.

I've never seen anything like this before: Andrew Scott plays every role in an adaptation of Chekhov's Uncle Vanya and delivers an astonishing performance. One quickly becomes accustomed to the conceit of one actor utilising a multiplicity of gestures, inflections, body language and mannerisms to depict different characters; Scott's exceptional skills in carrying this off have to be seen to be fully appreciated.

The adaptation of Chekhov's material is expertly devised and although there are many, many laughs in this production, what really strikes home is the deep emotional intensity of the performance. Scott is in tears at several points and it is both heartbreaking and exhilarating to witness.

Anyone who has the slightest interest in the theatre should make it a point to catch this film. Wonderfully filmed, with expressive and thoughtful camera work, it is an undiluted triumph for all concerned.

I believe it would be correct to say that this is far away from a regular play and if you want a classical Chekhov play and the story then this might not be it. As I've seen it now I realise how much it is about Andrew Scott and what an actor can do. This is the real reason everyone should go watch it, in case if you want to be a part of the experiment and see how Andrew gives a brilliant performance.

Especially since he is playing like 3 female characters and 3-4 male characters? I must admit that as I'm not a native English speaker and I'm not very familiar with the original material then I really needed to pay attention and even though Andrew made it quite simple to understand the character change sometimes I could have drifted away as at one point one of the character states as well.

Took a while for me to care. In the beginning they were all boring, unpleasant, pathetic or vile. The only good thing about it was Andrew Scott's performance and the occasional humour. Which is what makes it a four star to be honest.

I don't remember much of Uncle Vanya, if anything, but I remember I felt so sorry for him. This play brings everything closer to modern day and the characters feel diminished and much less worthy.

Anyway, I liked the last half hour, when I could actually connect to and feel for some of these people. But truly the high marks are for the performance. I don't know if this gimmick was really needed and I might have empathized more if I had individual actors for the other roles.