Théâtre: The Crucible

Yael Farber's unique interpretation of Arthur Miller's iconic play THE CRUCIBLE, staged by the Old Vic, garnered an impressive 10 Five Star reviews from the National Press during its sold-out run from June to September 2014. Featuring Richard Armitage in the role of John Proctor, the production earned two Olivier Award nominations, including Best Revival and Best Actor, as well as an Evening Standard Award nomination for Best Director. It also secured five Broadway World Awards, one of which was for Best Direction. Farber's rendition of THE CRUCIBLE stands out as one of the most successful productions in the rich history of The Old Vic. Following its triumphant run, The Old Vic and Digital Theatre made a filmed version available, reaching audiences in 20 countries and attracting over 50,000 viewers both in cinemas and online.

While I was among those who experienced the production, I found myself less captivated than many others. The performances were commendable, yet the directing felt overly dramatic to me, bordering on distracting.

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.

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 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.