Macbeth (1961 film)

Macbeth is a 1961 Canadian television film adaptation of William Shakespeare's Macbeth starring Sean Connery in his first North-American role (and his first significant Shakespearean role). The screenplay was adapted by Paul Almond who also directed the production. It was originally broadcast by CBC in five parts on 30 November, 5 December, 7 December, 12 December, and 14 December 1961; and then re-edited into a 90-minute single episode aired in 1962 as part of the CBC's Festival series.[1]

Macbeth
Digital remaster cover art
Based on	The Tragedy of Macbeth by William Shakespeare
Screenplay by	Paul Almond
Directed by	Paul Almond
Starring	Sean Connery
Country of origin	Canada
Original language(s)	English
Production
Producer(s)	Paul Almond
Running time	85 minutes
Production company(s)	Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
Release
Original release	22 January 1961 (Canada)

Plot

The Scottish lord Macbeth chooses evil as the way to fulfill his ambition for power. He commits regicide to become king and then furthers his moral descent with a reign of murderous terror to stay in power, eventually plunging the country into civil war. In the end, he loses everything that gives meaning and purpose to his life before losing his life itself.

Cast

• Sean Connery – Macbeth
• Zoe Caldwell – Lady Macbeth
• William Needles – Banquo
• Ted Follows – Macduff
• Robin Gammell – Malcolm
• Powys Thomas – King Duncan

Production

This adaptation was filmed in black and white in Toronto, Ontario.[2]

References

1. Van Wagner, Danielle (2004). Fischlin, Daniel (ed.). "Macbeth". Canadian Adaptations of Shakespeare Project. University of Guelph. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
2. Fedderson, Kim; Richardson, J. Michael (2008). "Macbeth: Recent Migrations of the Cinematic Brand". In Moschovakis, Nicholas Rand (ed.). Macbeth: New Critical Essays. New York: Routledge. p. 308. ISBN 9781135870881. OCLC 213339421.

External links

• Macbeth on IMDb