Laurence Olivier

Synopsis: Television programme. Kenneth Tynan interviews Laurence Olivier about his career and major Shakespeare roles. Olivier speaks of how he used the Oedipus complex in Hamlet, working with Tyrone Guthrie (whom Oliver says was nervous of intimacy), the character of Coriolanus and the problems of performing Macbeth. He explains his inspirations for his ‘look’ as Richard III (the Big Bad Wolf) and the character of Othello (" a savage creature") which fed into his film. He says after Richard III he experienced "the sweet smell of success" which smelt like "Brighton and oyster bars". Actors he admires include Fairbanks, Barrymore, Coward and Sid Fields. He speaks of setting up the National Theatre. He talks of how he lowered his voice to play Othello, and how difficult the role is to play because Othello "moans all the time". Much of the footage was shown in the programme LAURENCE OLIVIER 1907-1989: A TRIBUTE (q.v.).
Series: Great Acting
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Medium: Television
Transmission details: 23 Feb 1966 (Channel: BBC)
Duration: 45 mins

Production type: Documentary/Educational/News
Subjects: Drama
Keywords: acting; Shakespeare, William (1564-1616); Olivier, Laurence (1907-1989)

SHAKESPEARE