Best Historical Films About Richard III

Description: Directed by and starring Laurence Olivier, this adaptation of Shakespeare's play is a classic portrayal of Richard III's rise to power, showcasing his cunning and ruthless ambition.

Fact: Olivier won a BAFTA for Best British Actor for his role. The film was shot in color, which was unusual for Shakespeare adaptations at the time.

Description: While not exclusively about Richard III, this miniseries covers the Wars of the Roses, including Richard's rise to power and his relationship with his wife, Anne Neville.

Fact: The series is based on Philippa Gregory's historical novels, offering a female perspective on the events.

Description: Benedict Cumberbatch delivers a chilling performance as Richard III in this part of the BBC's Shakespeare adaptation series.

Fact: Cumberbatch's portrayal was critically acclaimed, with many praising his ability to capture Richard's complexity.

Description: This film, while not directly about Richard III, includes his daughter, Elizabeth of York, and explores the political intrigue of the time.

Fact: The film was released in 2016 but had been in development for over a decade.

Description: This TV series covers the entire period of the Wars of the Roses, with Richard III's reign being a significant part of the narrative.

Fact: It was one of the earliest TV adaptations of Shakespeare's history plays.

Description: This documentary follows the search for Richard III's remains, providing a modern perspective on his historical legacy.

Fact: The film was released shortly after the discovery of Richard III's remains under a car park in Leicester.

Description: This film, while not entirely accurate, features Basil Rathbone as Richard III, focusing on his reign and the dark deeds associated with the Tower of London.

Fact: The film was remade in 1962 with Vincent Price in the lead role.

Description: Ian McKellen stars in this adaptation, which sets the story in a 1930s fascist England, offering a fresh take on the historical context.

Fact: The film won the BAFTA Award for Best Costume Design.

Description: Al Pacino's documentary-drama explores the relevance of Richard III in modern times, blending Shakespeare's text with interviews and commentary.

Fact: Pacino not only stars but also directs this unique film, which includes interviews with notable actors like Sir John Gielgud and Sir Derek Jacobi.

Description: This documentary explores the mystery of the disappearance of Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury, often attributed to Richard III.

Fact: It includes interviews with historians and experts on the subject, offering various theories on what might have happened.