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National Theatre Live: The Boy With Two Hearts

National Theatre Live: The Boy With Two Hearts (2021)

Oct 02, 2021 1h 54m Drama Family

When a young mother speaks out against the Taliban, she and her husband are forced to flee their home and country with their three sons. Embarking on a long and terrifying journey across Russia and through Europe, they seek final refuge in the UK. But, as their eldest son’s life-threatening heart condition worsens and requires urgent surgery, their escape soon becomes a race against time. Amit Sharma directs this widely acclaimed stage version of The Boy with Two Hearts (BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week). Based on extraordinary real-life experiences, it is a powerful story of hope, courage, and humanity – and a heartfelt tribute to the NHS.

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Directed by Amit Sharma

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Amit Sharma
Producer
  • Pádraig Cusack

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, National Theatre Live: The Boy With Two Hearts examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Amit Sharma brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of National Theatre Live: The Boy With Two Hearts took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 114 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 152 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The film contains approximately 1518 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 187 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While National Theatre Live: The Boy With Two Hearts shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Spider, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, National Theatre Live: The Boy With Two Hearts offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Padmaavat and National Theatre Live: Present Laughter explore similar territory, National Theatre Live: The Boy With Two Hearts stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 2, 2021
  • Runtime: 1h 54m

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