Looking for Richard
1996 · Movie · PG-13 · 112 min · ★ 6.8 · 77% critics
An actor-director sets out to explore why Shakespeare still matters today by breaking down a classic play through rehearsals, street conversations, and interviews with performers and scholars. As scenes are tested and discussed, the film aims to make the language and ideas feel more approachable for modern audiences.
Based on Richard III
Where to watch
Not currently available to stream in the US.
2 hours to watch.
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Details
- Years
- 1996
- Release date
- 1996-10-11
- Language
- English
- Rated
- PG-13
- Runtime
- 112 min
- Critic score
- 77/100
- TMDB rating
- 6.8/10 (149 votes)
About
You’ll likely enjoy this if you like thoughtful, personality-driven documentaries that unpack classic literature through discussion and performance, similar to Pretend It’s a City; Not for you if you want a straightforward, full play adaptation or quick pacing.
Pros: passionate guide to Shakespeare; engaging interviews and rehearsals; makes language approachable | Cons: uneven mix of styles; can feel self-indulgent; may not convert skeptics
Themes
- performance art
Cast & crew
Al Pacino
as Self / Richard III
Winona Ryder
as Self / Lady Anne
Kevin Spacey
as Self / Earl of Buckingham
Alec Baldwin
as Self / Duke of Clarence
Aidan Quinn
as Richmond
Harris Yulin
as Self / King Edward
- PA
Penelope Allen
as Self / Queen Elizabeth
Kenneth Branagh
as Self - Interviewee
Kevin Kline
as Self - Interviewee
James Earl Jones
as Self - Interviewee
Directed by Al Pacino