Cast
View All
Harriet Walter
as Bernarda Alba
Lizzie Annis
as Martirio
Pearl Chanda
as Magdalena
Rosalind Eleazar
as Angustias
Isis Hainsworth
as Adela
Thusitha Jayasundera
as Poncia
Bryony Hannah
as Maid
Eileen Nicholas
as María Josefa
Catherine Humphrys
as Woman / Understudy María Josefa
Asha Kingsley
as Woman / Understudy Poncia / Prudencia
Marcia Lecky
as Prudencia
James A. McHugh
as Pepe El Romano / Lace Man
Michael Naylor
as Understudy Pepe El Romano / Lace Man
Celia Nelson
as Woman / Understudy Bernarda
Eliot Salt
as Amelia
Crew
Director
- Rebecca Frecknall
Writer
- Alice Birch
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, National Theatre Live: The House of Bernarda Alba 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 Rebecca Frecknall 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 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of National Theatre Live: The House of Bernarda Alba took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 126 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 176 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 193 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 2384 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2024, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While National Theatre Live: The House of Bernarda Alba shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike WarGames, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, National Theatre Live: The House of Bernarda Alba offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Color Purple and Hotel Rwanda explore similar territory, National Theatre Live: The House of Bernarda Alba stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 22, 2024
- Runtime: 2h 6m
