Overview
A tale of ambition and treachery unfolds in the pursuit of power.
Ember's analysis
- Pacing
- Measured
- Intensity
- Strong
- Complexity
- Layered
- Violence
- Moderate
- theatrical
- ominous
- sardonic
- classic cinema evening
- Shakespeare study
What critics said
Critics broadly praise the film's powerful Shakespearean adaptation, exceptional British ensemble, and Olivier's commanding performance, while noting its deliberately theatrical style.
What sets it apart
May contain story progression spoilers
Richard repeatedly shares his calculations and ambitions with the viewer through conspiratorial asides.
Richard manipulates courtly appearances, religious ceremony, and public persuasion to advance his claim to the throne.
Olivier's adaptation emphasizes formal declamation, elaborate court settings, and a strongly stage-derived acting style.
Richard's jealousy of Edward's crown drives deception, betrayal, and murder across the English court.
Films like Richard III, and why
Henry V
lavish historical drama centered on royal succession, political betrayal, and ruthless ambition
Chimes at Midnight
Shakespearean historical drama combining theatrical performance, monarchy, warfare, and moral consequence
The Lion in Winter
stylized British period drama about aristocratic power struggles, betrayal, and dynastic collapse
Movie Details
- Director
- Laurence Olivier
- Release Date
- 1955-12-13
- Runtime
- 155 min
- Rating
- 7.2 / 10 (97)
Cast
- Laurence Olivier
- Cedric Hardwicke
- Nicholas Hannen
- Ralph Richardson
- John Gielgud
- Mary Kerridge
- Pamela Brown
- Paul Huson
- Claire Bloom
- Wallace Bosco
Where to watch in United States
- Streaming
- HBO Max Amazon Channel, HBO Max
- Rent
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home
- Buy
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home
Streaming options come from TMDB and change over time.
Common questions
- What is Richard III about?
- Laurence Olivier turns Shakespeare’s ruthless royal usurper into a commanding study of theatrical manipulation, dynastic ambition, and political ruin.
- What is Richard III like to watch?
- Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Richard III as measured, its intensity as strong and its storytelling as layered.
- Is Richard III violent?
- Somewhat. Ember rates the violence in Richard III as moderate.
- What did critics think of Richard III?
- Critics broadly praise the film's powerful Shakespearean adaptation, exceptional British ensemble, and Olivier's commanding performance, while noting its deliberately theatrical style.
- Which films are like Richard III?
- Films with a similar feel include Henry V, Chimes at Midnight, and The Lion in Winter.
- How long is Richard III?
- Richard III runs 155 minutes.
- Where can I watch Richard III?
- In United States, Richard III streams on HBO Max Amazon Channel, HBO Max.
