HOW EFFECTIVELY DID IAN McKELLEN’S FILM OF RICHARD III INTERPRET THE MAIN CONCERNS OF SHAKESPEARE’S PLAY?

Richard III is a tale of royal intrigue and one man’s lust for the power of the British throne. It is updated from 15th century costume drama to a 1930’s political thriller. McKellen’s film interprets the main concerns very effectively. McKellen attacks the title role and shows Richard as an extremely evil character. The film also portrays the main characteristics of relationships between characters for example the loyalty and betrayal. Manipulation is also a key element in the play.

McKellen as an actor and director showed Richard to be the epitome of evil. His capacity and relish for evil causes viewers to almost doubt his sanity. Richa...