Henry V1944

Director
Laurence Olivier

Acters

Laurence Olivier (King Henry V of England)
Felix Aylmer (Archbishop of Canterbury)
Robert Helpmann (Bishop of Ely)
Vernon Greeves (The English Herald)
Gerald Case (Earl of Westmoreland)
Griffith Jones (Earl of Salisbury)

In the midst of the Hundred Years’ War, the young King Henry V of England embarks on the conquest of France in 1415.
In the inspired Olivier concept, Shakespeare’s play begins as a performance in the Globe Theatre, shifting in broad cinematic terms to an epic narrative of Henry V, who had developed from a dissolute youth to a purposeful monarch. Proving his ability as a soldier and skillful leader, he unites the dissident factions in the English army and goes on to crush the French, against enormous odds, at Agincourt. Arranging a treaty with the French court, he woos Princess Katharine to whom he is formally betrothed as part of the peace agreement.
“A bold, clear reading of Shakespeare’s play.” – The Guardian
“’Henry V’ is a stirring, gritty and enjoyable pic which offers a plethora of fine performances from some of the U.K.’s brightest talents.” – Variety
“A fine group of British film craftsmen and actors, headed by Laurence Olivier, have concocted a stunningly brilliant and intriguing screen spectacle, rich in theatrical invention, in heroic imagery and also gracefully regardful of the conventions of the Elizabethan stage.” – The New York Times