Skip to main content

Deep Dive: Looking for Richard (1996)

Play Trailer

Film Lens

Looking for Richard
Looking for Richard is a 1996 documentary film directed by Al Pacino, marking his directorial debut. The film combines a performance of selected scenes from William Shakespeare's Richard III with a documentary examination of Shakespeare's relevance in modern culture. Pacino plays both himself and Richard III, guiding the audience through the play's plot and historical context. The film features performances from actors such as Penelope Allen and Harris Yulin, who act out scenes while providing commentary on their roles. In addition to the performances, the film includes interviews with notable actors like Vanessa Redgrave and Kenneth Branagh, as well as Shakespeare scholars such as Barbara Everett. The documentary aspect captures discussions with ordinary people, adding a layer of insight into Shakespeare's impact on contemporary society. The film was well-received, screening at prestigious festivals like Sundance and Cannes, and winning an award for directing.

Why Watch

  • •See Al Pacino as both himself and Richard III.
  • •Meet actors like Vanessa Redgrave and Kenneth Branagh.
  • •Find out how Shakespeare influences modern culture.

Did You Know

•Looking for Richard was featured at the Sundance Film Festival in January 1996.
•The film received an 82% positive rating from 49 critics on Rotten Tomatoes.
•Al Pacino won the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directing – Documentaries for this film.
•The film has a runtime of 112 minutes.

Perfect For

Shakespeare enthusiastsAl Pacino fansTheater lovers