Kenneth Branagh wowed the industry at the tender age of 29 when he scripted, directed and starred in this immensely stirring reading of the young King of England who conquered France, which remains to this day one of the finest Shakespearean adaptations on film. (Mind you, having a supporting cast that includes Paul Scofield, Ian Holm, Emma Thompson, Judi Dench and Derek Jacobi didn't make Branagh's job any harder.) The mastering of this 1989 film is a bit soft and lacking in detail, but no matter: After Branagh gives the St. Crispin's Day speech, even the pickiest videophile will be willing to lead the charge for this one. Highly recommended. (S. C. Sickles)[Blu-ray Review—Feb. 10, 2015—Shout! Factory, 138 min., PG-13, $24.98—Making its first appearance on Blu-ray, 1989's Henry V features a decent transfer and a DTS-HD 2.0 soundtrack, but no extras beyond the original trailer. Bottom line: Branagh's showcase Shakespearean adaptation makes a welcome debut on Blu-ray.]
Henry V
MGM, 138 min., PG-13, $19.98 Vol. 15, Issue 5
Henry V
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