Coriolanus

Coriolanus
By William Shakespeare, directed by Josie Rourke. National Theatre Live. Participating cinemas across Australia from February 22, 2014.

Shakespeare’s Coriolanus, like so much of his work, features themes that are as relevant today as they were when the play was written. A Roman soldier returns from battle as a conquering hero, but even as he accepts a place in the senate, voices of dissent are raised against him. Unwilling to conceal his contempt for the masses, he is outcast as the people turn against him - so joins forces with his former enemy to seek revenge.

A viscerally powerful play, Coriolanus is brought to the stage in a tight, almost claustrophobic theatre space by London’s Donmar Warehouse company, whose production is relayed to us via the NT Live series of filmed British theatre productions captured for our hi-def viewing pleasure.

While the direction could be criticised for featuring a great deal of angry shouting of lines, thereby running the risk of inuring the audience, this a well-staged and paced production featuring a strong cast. Tom Hiddleston is not your typical Coriolanus, younger and perhaps more lithe than you might expect, but while at the beginning of the play he’s underplaying somewhat, he soon summons the necessary emotional energy to do the part justice. Mark Gatiss is suitably foppish but entirely believable as the loyal Menenius, and a special mention should be made of Birgitte Hjort Sorensen as Coriolanus’ wife Virgilia, who despite having few lines turns in a thoroughly believable, emotionally charged performance.

At three hours all up, it’s a long movie (though some of this is taken up by an interval, introductory piece and interview with the director) but the pacing is great, the story riveting and the performances sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Alex Paige

For participating cinemas visit www.sharmillfilms.com.au

Images: Tom Hiddleston (Caius Martius Coriolanus) & Birgitte Hjort Sørensen (Virgilia) and Tom Hiddleston (Caius Martius Coriolanus).

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