RSC Live: Troilus and Cressida is a film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s tragedy play, Troilus and Cressida. It was directed for the stage by Gregory Doran and filmed live at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, UK, in 2018.
The play is set during the Trojan War and follows the love story of Trojan warrior Troilus and the daughter of a Trojan priestess, Cressida. They fall in love at first sight and swear their eternal love to one another. However, their romance is put to the test when Cressida is sent to the Greeks as part of a prisoner exchange.
In the Greeks’ camp, Cressida is courted by the Greek warrior Diomedes while Troilus is consumed with jealousy and rage. Meanwhile, the Trojan leaders, including Hector and Paris, engage in political machinations and endless bickering, while the Greek leaders, including Agamemnon and Achilles, plot their next attack on Troy.
The play explores themes such as love, war, politics, fate, and the corrupting influence of power. It is notable for its cynical and satirical tone, which contrasts with the idealistic and romantic portrayal of war in other Shakespearean plays.
The film adaptation features a dynamic and diverse cast, including Gavin Fowler as Troilus, Amber James as Cressida, and Andy Apollo as Achilles. The production also uses modern costumes and sets to give the play a contemporary edge.
Overall, RSC Live: Troilus and Cressida is a compelling and thought-provoking interpretation of one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known tragedies, and a must-watch for fans of Shakespeare and theatre.