Laurence Olivier: A Master at His Craft - Best Films and Performances
Laurence Olivier's film career is a testament to his outstanding talent and dedication to his craft. Throughout his illustrious years, he delivered memorable performances that have become classics in the annals of cinema. This article delves into the aspects that earn him the title of one of the greatest actors of his time and explores why the best film can be a matter of personal taste.
Laurence Olivier in 'The Entertainer'
Laurence Olivier's portrayal of Archie Rice in the film The Entertainer (1960) marked a significant milestone in his career. Olivier, a master actor, brought a nuanced and layered performance to a character originally derived from a theater production by John Osborne. The film adaptation allowed him to explore a variety of emotions, making Archie Rice a character that was devious, irresponsible, manipulative, charming, and ultimately tragic. Rice's determination to rise from a third-rate entertainer to a major performer, even at the cost of his family, is portrayed with great depth and complexity by Olivier.
Memorable Performances Beyond Olivier's Shakespearean Roles
Beyond his renowned Shakespearean roles, Olivier delivered exceptional performances in films that are often overlooked. One such performance is his role as the British Air Marshall in The Battle of Britain, where his restrained acting style and uncanny similarity to his character made a lasting impact. In Marathon Man, Olivier took on the role of a Nazi doctor, which required immense emotional and physical depth, earning him praise for his remarkable villainy.
Shakespearean Performances: A Trenchant Critique
In evaluating Olivier's best film, discussion inevitably draws to his stellar Shakespearean performances. For many, 'The Entertainer' is a close competitor to films such as Henry V and Wuthering Heights. I personally hold 'Henry V' in high esteem over Richard III, mainly because the Henry V is considered a better play and this was a selection of his best films. Richard III, while undoubtedly a remarkable performance, faces criticism for dragging in parts of the film, reflecting the cinematographic challenges that adapt Shakespeare's works to the screen.
'Hamlet' presents another layer of complexity. Critics argue that the film Hamlet (1948) is stripped down, with considerable portions of the play omitted. This has led to some admirers feeling it was a lapse in craftsmanship. The film is produced by Rank Studios, and some detractors coined the phrase 'The offense is Rank. It smells to heaven,' reflecting the public's perception and criticism.
Wuthering Heights stands as a beautifully romantic production. While the performances by the lead actors are deemed over-the-top, their hamming style enhances the material, making it a compelling watch. This film and others like it, such as the filmed stage production of King Lear, which many consider Olivier's finest Shakespearean assumption, contribute to his enduring legacy.
Conclusion
Laurence Olivier's filmography is not only extensive but also rich with various iconic roles. The question of what his best film is subjective, as different films in his repertoire resonate with different audiences. However, his performances in 'The Entertainer,' 'The Battle of Britain,' 'Marathon Man,' and particularly 'Hamlet' and 'Wuthering Heights' remain celebrated as milestones in his illustrious career.