Performance & Direction: National Theatre Live: King Lear Review
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is National Theatre Live: King Lear (2014) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and National Theatre Live: King Lear features a noteworthy lineup led by Simon Russell Beale . Supported by the likes of Kate Fleetwood and Anna Maxwell Martin , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: National Theatre Live: King Lear
Quick Plot Summary: National Theatre Live: King Lear is a Drama film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: National Theatre Live: King Lear
Ending Breakdown: National Theatre Live: King Lear resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of National Theatre Live: King Lear reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch National Theatre Live: King Lear?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Top Cast: National Theatre Live: King Lear
All Cast & Crew →
National Theatre Live: King Lear Parents Guide & Age Rating
2014 AdvisoryWondering about National Theatre Live: King Lear age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of National Theatre Live: King Lear is 205 minutes (3h 25m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.1/10, and global performance metrics, National Theatre Live: King Lear is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2014 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is National Theatre Live: King Lear worth watching?
National Theatre Live: King Lear is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.1/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find National Theatre Live: King Lear parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for National Theatre Live: King Lear identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of National Theatre Live: King Lear?
The total duration of National Theatre Live: King Lear is 205 minutes, which is approximately 3h 25m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked National Theatre Live: King Lear
How National Theatre Live: King Lear Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for National Theatre Live: King Lear
No reviews found for this filter.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
More with Simon Russell Beale
