National Theatre Live: Vanya

Took a while for me to care. In the beginning they were all boring, unpleasant, pathetic or vile. The only good thing about it was Andrew Scott's performance and the occasional humour. Which is what makes it a four star to be honest.

I don't remember much of Uncle Vanya, if anything, but I remember I felt so sorry for him. This play brings everything closer to modern day and the characters feel diminished and much less worthy.

Anyway, I liked the last half hour, when I could actually connect to and feel for some of these people. But truly the high marks are for the performance. I don't know if this gimmick was really needed and I might have empathized more if I had individual actors for the other roles.

I've never seen anything like this before: Andrew Scott plays every role in an adaptation of Chekhov's Uncle Vanya and delivers an astonishing performance. One quickly becomes accustomed to the conceit of one actor utilising a multiplicity of gestures, inflections, body language and mannerisms to depict different characters; Scott's exceptional skills in carrying this off have to be seen to be fully appreciated.

The adaptation of Chekhov's material is expertly devised and although there are many, many laughs in this production, what really strikes home is the deep emotional intensity of the performance. Scott is in tears at several points and it is both heartbreaking and exhilarating to witness.

Anyone who has the slightest interest in the theatre should make it a point to catch this film. Wonderfully filmed, with expressive and thoughtful camera work, it is an undiluted triumph for all concerned.

It's always rewarding when talented actors and skilled direction come together to bring a concept to life.

Andrew Scott's ability to embody various emotions and inject humour into his performance while keeping the audience engaged is truly commendable.

The captivating emotions Andrew Scott brings to each character make it easy to see his portrayal as the norm. His ability to breathe life into multiple roles is truly impressive, creating a seamless and engaging experience that draws viewers into the rich tapestry of emotions woven throughout the performance.

Translating the theatrical experience to the screen successfully adds another layer of appreciation. It's a testament to both the actor's skill and the team's efforts in capturing the essence of live theatre.

Thank you to all involved who brought this production to the screen.

I was told that Vanya performed by Andrew Scott is a great theatre piece, but when I watched it myself, I found it hard to describe in words how phenomenal it was. Scott, the actor I admire for his talent and his choice of films to be in, is playing the role of every single character and he does it impeccably. The script is even more interesting and funny than the original text by Chekhov, which made it all a really jaw-dropping experience. I definitely recommend watching Vanya if you still haven't.

Wow. An amazing night in Liverpool. After seeing Vanya on stage I was not sure it would transfer to the big screen. How wrong I was. Andrew Scott's performance is as beautiful and heartfelt on screen as it was in the theatre. Watching it again transported me back to the theatre performance and the camera work brought the excellence of Scott's acting into sharp focus, I cannot remember what I paid for the theatre tickets but with train fares and other expenses it was in the hundreds. Full marks for the National Theatre for making this master class in acting and direction available to all, everywhere and at an affordable price. A must see. I am going again!