The Old Vic's The Crucible

Yesterday evening I went to see this play as a movie and I'm not able to give it enough praise. The morning after I still can't stop thinking about the haunting story line and the brilliant acting. Especially Richard Armitage as John Proctor simply took my breath away. The pain and sorrow he felt was so very palpable. At first I was a little afraid that the length of the play might be a bit to much, but it turned out to be so extremely captivating, by the end I simply didn't want it to stop. The filming has also been done beautifully. I felt like I was actual standing between the characters.

If you're able to see one of the few screenings of this movie, please go. I can assure you, you won't feel sorry.

I actually went to watch this at The Old Vic Theatre. And it didn't disappoint in any way, the opposite is true! Due to the great direction you could feel you were part of what was developing on the stage. As if you were there, witnessing... This in itself was unique and groundbreaking, especially sitting on the 1st row.

Yes, Richard Armitage is definitely great in the role of John Proctor - but all the other actors did a superb job, may I mention the late, amazing Adrian Schiller, Natalie Gavin, Anna Madeley and William Gaunt, just to name 4. How were they able to do it twice a day two times a week for I don't recall how many months still baffles me!

All in all one of the best theatre plays I had the pleasure to watch, and I am also very glad to own the filming of it.

I think 9.1 is a low rating for this masterpiece. I loved every single thing about this movie. D.Day Lewis's film has 6.8 in IMDb while this movie has 9.1. Isn't it great? I mean it was closer to the original and the fact that godfather 2 has lower rating than this film, then it says everything. Also, it was better than in the theater. Last but not least, Samantha and Richard were great in the film, i would like to see Samantha in other films, too.They were both absolutely awesome.

I watched the play through digital theatre's website. Gut wrenching in parts and intensely moving. Richard Armitage is such a talented actor and deserves better roles than he seems to get. His voice is powerful and his presence on the stage or in front of the camera is magnetic. Other performances and direction by Farber were stellar as well. I also enjoyed his extended interview that Digital Theatre makes available on their website.

Just a sidenote: I had a difficult time with the download and player that the site makes you use. I am no luddite, but couldn't get the video to play on my smart HD TV. I ended up streaming it. Digital theatre should release this on DVD.

I wanted to go to London to see this play but couldn't, then I saw it listed in local cinema and persuaded my husband to accompany me, not telling him length was 3 hours. He honestly didn't notice until we were walking home and he checked time! From the onset you engage with this production. It is a filmed within the theatre so everything takes place on stage, but the camera-work is not static and takes you into the performance. This is a very intense and powerful interpretation with a brilliant cast. It's lead, Richard Armitage, was nominated for an Olivier award for his performance and in my opinion only missed out because Mark Strong's performance was delivered in an American accent. His portrayal of John Proctor delivers a man who is physically strong but has allowed a moment of weakness to undermine his marriage and sense of self. As group hysteria is unleashed good people suffer and the community turns in on itself. Arthur Miller's writing, Yael Farber's direction and Richard Artimitage's performance combine together to create an unforgettable viewing experience.