Cast
View All
Judi Dench
as Paulina
Kenneth Branagh
as Leontes
Miranda Raison
as Hermione
Jaygann Ayeh
as Archidamus
Tom Bateman
as Florizel
Jessie Buckley
as Perdita
Vera Chok
as Dorcas
John Dagleish
as Autolycus
Hadley Fraser
as Polixenes
Adam Garcia
as Lord Amadis
Taylor James
as Capino
David Jones Jr.
as Young Shakespeare
Zoe Rainey
as Emilia
Stuart Neal
as Dion
Michael Rouse
as Gaoler/Mariner
Crew
Director
- Benjamin Caron
- Rob Ashford
- Kenneth Branagh
Producer
- Jez Breadin
- Simon Fisher
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Branagh Theatre Live: The Winter's Tale 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 Benjamin Caron 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 2015, 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 Branagh Theatre Live: The Winter's Tale took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 210 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 235 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: November 30, 2015
- Runtime: 3h 30m