Richard III 1956

The film opens with the iconic London Films logo, as the famous Big Ben tolls the hour, setting a dramatic tone. As the credits roll on a parchment, we are presented with a thought-provoking quote that reminds us of the significance of legends:

“The history of the world, like letters without poetry, flowers without perfume, or thought without imagination, would be a dry matter indeed without its legends, and many of these, though scorned by proof a hundred times, seem worth preserving for their own familiar sakes.”

The narrative transports us back to the 15th Century in England, specifically to a time marked by the strife between rival factions competing for the English crown, a saga known as the Wars of the Roses. The House of Lancaster is represented by the Red Rose, while the House of York is symbolized by the White Rose. As the story unfolds, the White Rose of York is nearing its zenith, which serves as the backdrop to inspire the great playwright William Shakespeare.

The scene transitions to the solemn moment of Edward IV’s (portrayed by Cedric Hardwicke) coronation, where he is surrounded by a court filled with his siblings and noblemen. Among them is Richard, Duke of Gloucester (played by Laurence Olivier), who shares a subtle exchange of glances with the Duke of Buckingham (portrayed by Ralph Richardson). Richard, feeling the weight of his family dynamics, follows his newly crowned brother into the throne room. There, both he and his other brother, George, Duke of Clarence (played by John Gielgud), express their affections towards Edward’s children, depicted by Paul Huson and Andy Shine. The Queen (played by Mary Kerridge) observes this familial display.

However, Richard’s sentiments diverge from the celebratory atmosphere. As the rest of the court, except for him, departs the throne room to join Edward on a parade for the common people, Richard remains behind. In this moment of solitude, he introspectively shares his thoughts directly with the audience, hinting at the inner turmoil and ambitions that will shape the conflict to come. As the intrigue begins to unfold, we are left anticipating the events that will arise from the shadows of power and ambition in the royal court.