A theatre production still on a minimalist set of saturated cobalt-blue panelled walls, with a dark open doorway at the back. A middle-aged bald man in a grey overcoat, olive corduroy trousers and brown suede shoes sits at the left end of a cream mid-century sofa, hands clasped in his lap, gazing sideways with a wary, composed expression. Behind the sofa, a younger man in a white ribbed vest, dark jeans, boots and a gold chain leans forward on his palms, studying the seated man. Brass mushroom-shaped lamps stand on chrome side tables at either end; a brown fedora rests on the left table, and a bottle of Samovar vodka, two glasses and an ice bucket sit on the right.

NT Live: The Motive & The Cue

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About NT Live: The Motive & The Cue

Sam Mendes directs Mark Gatiss in an Olivier Award-winning performance as John Gielgud.

1964. Richard Burton (Johnny Flynn), newly married to Elizabeth Taylor (Tuppence Middleton), is set to play the title role in an experimental new Broadway production of Hamlet under Gielgud’s exacting direction. But as rehearsals progress, two ages of theatre collide and the collaboration between actor and director soon threatens to unravel.

From multi-award-winning writer Jack Thorne (Adolescence), this acclaimed production was filmed live during its sold out run at the National Theatre in 2023.

Please note: the screening on Sunday 21st February includes descriptive subtitles.
 

Booking info

To book Accessible tickets and free Companion tickets, please visit our Accessible Bookings page. Companion tickets will initially show a standard ticket price, but once your account is set-up and you are logged in, this will be reduced to £0 at checkout.

Duration includes trailers, adverts and any Q&A/panel. For events such as NT Live, Colour Box and Reel & Meal there will be minimal advertising. We do not admit latecomers after the main feature has started and we have a limited food & drink policy.

MAC’s cinema programme has been generously supported by BFI Film Audience Network and Film Hub Midlands.

Dates and times

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