Hedda Gabler

Warris Hussein (director of the mini-series "War and Peace") directs a clear, full-bodied, and very fine adaptation of the Ibsen classic. One of the great powerhouse Janet Suzman's greatest performances, her Hedda is also the best interpretation of the famous complex anti-heroine I've ever seen, hands down. Sir Ian McKellan gives an outstanding co-performance as George, as do the remaining cast members. It's gripping and a bit shocking (even now) in its depiction of psychopathy, thanks in large part to Suzman's highly intelligent, highly organic, dynamo of a performance.

I'm hoping that the BBC will release this on DVD, as well as other taped classic plays from the same series, including "The Duchess of Malfi" with Eileen Atkins and "The Wild Duck" with Denholm Elliot.

This is a "made-for-TV" production of the Ibsen play which contains the finest performances imaginable for these characters, especially Hedda. Janet Suzman is brilliant in this role. To watch her interpretation is to understand the play. Ian McKellan and the rest of the cast are also superb. The film quality is definitely TV video, but all other production values are very high, including scenery and costumes. The director's understanding of the script is flawless and he works with the actors to bring out their very best. The only copy I have seen of this belonged to a friend and was taken from an episode of Masterpiece Theatre (I think). I would love to own a legit copy in any format if I could find one!

This is an outstanding production of the famed Hedda Gabler. Janet Suzman gives a flawless performance. SHE IS HEDDA. Ian Mclellen as well as the other actors also give top rate performances. This is a joy to watch and is one of the best TV films ever produced. If you ever get a chance to see this, don't miss it.