William Shakespeare - 28 - King Lear - bbc 2016

A very recent and rather Scottish production. Ian McDiarmid, one of the most notable talents about today, is in the title role. Kindly seed.

And see if you agree with this response -

“King Lear absolutely shone. Gaynor Macfarlane’s direction was immaculate. Every player spoke the verse so well that its rhythm amplified the dramatic impact. Ian McDiarmid played Lear, Bill Paterson was Gloucester, both performances outstanding, nuanced, gripping. When Goneril and Regan faced down their father, questioning his requirement for a regal entourage, McDiarmid’s response “Oh reason not the need…” had the fury of both a king and a father who no longer exerts power. The blinding of Gloucester was horrific in its unseen intensity. I started listening on the dot of 9pm and didn’t miss a word until, two and a half hours later, it ended.”