As You Like It (Czinner, 1936)

DVD Extras

• Digitally remastered.

Film Details

Cast

Laurence Olivier, Elizabeth Bergner

Technical Details

Star Review

An early example of a Shakespeare “talkie”, this curio is of real historic interest to cinephiles. Firstly, it features Laurence Olivier’s first filmed performance in a Shakespeare play; he is a perfect Orlando: dashing, virile, and breathes charisma into a potentially bland role.

Secondly, it stars Elizabeth Bergner (the inspiration for Margo Channing in All About Eve) as Rosalind, one of the bard’s greatest female roles. Berger was married to director Paul Czinner, and this was the tenth of their twelve film collaborations. In As You Like It, her strong Austrian accent and stylised acting drew derision from contemporary critics, yet her unconventional portrayal is surprisingly successful, particularly when she masquerades as the male Ganymede in the riotous second half.

Finally, it is a rare film adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s best comedies. The supporting turns are a joy, with Mackenzie Ward a particular highlight as Touchstone, the rather camp jester. Best of all, however, is Leon Quartermaine, who delivers the most famous monologue (“All the world’s a stage”) with touching poignancy. A fascinating watch.

Alex Davidson on 1st February 2007

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Film Description

A real treasure from the archives, this sees a young Laurence Olivier take on the role of Orlando in Shakespeare's popular comedy of entangled love affairs, cross-dressing and delightful wordplay. Even at this early stage, Olivier dominates his scenes, although Elisabeth Bergner's strong Austrian accent and wooden delivery hampers things somewhat. Still, a fascinating example of an early Shakespeare "talkie", with camerawork by Jack Cardiff and editing by David Lean.

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