
Henry V
dir. Laurence Olivier
79
6 sourcesSynopsis
In 1415, in the midst of the Hundred Years' War, the young King Henry V of England embarks on the conquest of France.
Critics consensus
A patriotic booster, Laurence Olivier's directorial debut and star turn as Henry V result in a sharply realized and resonant take on Shakespeare's deeply British warrior king.
What resonated with audiences
'Henry V' showcases Olivier's groundbreaking directorial debut with masterful artistic vision, stunning Technicolor cinematography, and innovative transitions from Globe Theatre stage to cinematic realism. His commanding performance and faithful Shakespeare dialogue earn widespread praise, alongside impressive production design and the memorable Agincourt battle sequence. However, engagement proves divisive, with some finding pacing slow while others remain absorbed. Historical liberties and sanitized portrayals disappoint some viewers, as do occasional omissions from the source material.

Directed byLaurence Olivier
StarringLaurence Olivier, Renée Asherson, Ralph Truman, Ernest Thesiger, Frederick Cooper, Robert Helpmann
Written byLaurence Olivier, Dallas Bower, Alan Dent
CinematographyRobert Krasker
EditingReginald Beck
MusicWilliam Walton
Henry V
1944 · 2h 17m
History, Drama, War
In 1415, in the midst of the Hundred Years' War, the young King Henry V of England embarks on the conquest of France.
Our Verdict
79
'Henry V' showcases Olivier's groundbreaking directorial debut with masterful artistic vision, stunning Technicolor cinematography, and innovative transitions from Globe Theatre stage to cinematic realism. His commanding performance and faithful Shakespeare dialogue earn widespread praise, alongside impressive production design and the memorable Agincourt battle sequence. However, engagement proves divisive, with some finding pacing slow while others remain absorbed. Historical liberties and sanitized portrayals disappoint some viewers, as do occasional omissions from the source material.
Critics Consensus
A patriotic booster, Laurence Olivier's directorial debut and star turn as Henry V result in a sharply realized and resonant take on Shakespeare's deeply British warrior king.
