Henry V (1989)

With this film, 28 year-old Kenneth Branagh put forth a strong claim as the best interpreter of the Bard of Avon currently working.

Having seen several of Shakespeare's plays, including Hamlet, Othello, Olivier's 1944 Henry V, Merry Wives of Windsor, Richard III, Julius Caesar, Macbeth as well as numerous versions of Romeo and Juliet, I was unprepared for the brilliance of Branagh's performance. I can safely say his was the best interpretation of all.

In fact, this film was the first time I could follow the immortal Bard's language without difficulty. This was not because Branagh changed the olde English words, but because he learned them by heart, made them his own, and enunciated them with clarity and gusto. This resulted in a flowing dialog that was music to my ears.

Branagh's delivery is intense and well articulated. His expressions and mannerisms accentuate the power of the words and add tremendously to the impact of the presentation. His appearance is every inch a king as well.

Before the battle Henry speaks to his men in the following stirring words: And Crispin Crispian shall ne'er go by from this day until the ending of the world but we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers. For he today who sheds his blood with me shall be my brother. Be he e'er so vile, this day shall gentle his condition, and gentlemen in England now abed shall think themselves acursed they were not here, and hold their manhoods cheap whilst any speaks, that fought with us upon St. Crispin's day! After hearing that speech, you will want to join him at Agincourt!

Supporting cast includes a bevy of fine British actors, including Derek Jacobi, the chorus who leads us into, through, and finally out of the world of King Henry V. Brian Blessed, Simon Shepherd, and James Larkin play the King's barons. Emma Thompson has a small but key part as the French Princess Katherine, whom Henry woos following the victory at Agincourt.

Direction, also by Branagh, is impressive especially since it is his first outing. Each scene is well staged and meaningful.

Sets and costuming are well chosen and photography is excellent. Original music by Patrick Doyle keeps pace with the action. Film editing is a textbook example of how to put a movie together. There is neither too much left in, nor too little in any given scene. The result is a well-paced, polished performance that really cannot be improved.

Compare any of the other Shakespeare plays you can find: Gibson's Hamlet, Olivier's Henry V, Welles Othello or Hamlet, Brando's Julius Caesar. I think you will agree Branagh's Henry V is the best!

Five stars.




Recommended: Yes