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National Theatre Live: Twelfth Night
8.7

National Theatre Live: Twelfth Night (2017)

Apr 06, 2017 2h 42m Comedy Drama

A ship is wrecked on the rocks. Viola is washed ashore but her twin brother Sebastian is lost. Determined to survive on her own, she steps out to explore a new land. So begins a whirlwind of mistaken identity and unrequited love. The nearby households of Olivia and Orsino are overrun with passion. Even Olivia's upright housekeeper Malvolia is swept up in the madness. Where music is the food of love, and nobody is quite what they seem, anything proves possible.

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Directed by Robin Lough

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Robin Lough
Producer
  • Flo Buckeridge
  • Kate Moore

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, National Theatre Live: Twelfth Night 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 Robin Lough 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 2017, 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: Twelfth Night took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 162 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 188 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The film contains approximately 2087 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike National Theatre Live: Trouble in Mind, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, National Theatre Live: Twelfth Night subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like National Theatre Live: Prima Facie and Allegiance explore similar territory, National Theatre Live: Twelfth Night 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: April 6, 2017
  • Runtime: 2h 42m