Buy Edward II on DVD

Edward II (1970)

DVD

More Info

Usually ships in
5-10 days

$13.99 (6% off)
List Price: ~~$14.99~~

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Synopsis

The BBC broadcast of this critically lauded production, after its transfer to London, caused a sensation with its uncompromising portrayal of Edward's sexuality, including the first kiss between two men on British television. Christopher Marlowe's play is remarkably modern. It is perhaps surprising to realize that this open depiction of love between two men is 400 years old. Edward II is a flawed ruler, his reign marred by civil strife and rebellion, but it was his love life, and not his inept leadership, that ultimately turned the nobles against the king. The play begins with the return of Edward's favorite courtier, Gaveston (James Laurenson, "MI-5," "State of Play"), from exile and his open declaration of love for the king. Edward's devotion to Gaveston, and his stubborn refusal to give him up, is at the heart of the tragedy of the play.

Product Format Information

DVD : $13.99

Availability: Usually ships in
5-10 days
Close Caption: Yes
Region Code: 1
UPC: 883929069583

Studio : Warner

Languages: English (Primary) , English Subtitles
Aspect Ratio: 1.33 Original Aspect Ratio

Keywords

Biographical/Autobiographical, British, UK, Drama, Gay Male, Gay/Lesbian, History, Literary Adaptation

Genres

Drama

Customer Reviews

A New Version

Amos Lassen wrote on 02/14/2009:

“Edward II”

A Different Version

Amos Lassen

Coming soon from Warner Brothers is a new and different version of Christopher Marlowe’s “Edward II”. Do not be confused, this is not the Derek Jarman film but a film adaptation originally broadcast by the BBC. It stars Ian McKellen and James Laurenson and was filmed almost 40 years ago. The production was hailed by the critics and it caused quite a sensation in the way it portrayed the king’s sexuality and it provided the first kiss by two men ever to seen on British television.
What is surprising is how modern Marlowe’s play is even though in actuality it is over 400 years old. Edward had a flawed rule and that is not only because he, himself, was flawed but his reign had to deal with civil war. What ultimately turned the nobles against him was not his ineptitude to rule but his Edward’s sex life. The play begins when the king’s favorite courtier, Gavezton, returns from having been exiled and his open declaration of love for Edward. His decision and refusal to give his love up is what provides the heart of the play and the tragedy that follows. The film is wonderfully acted and remains contemporary. It is a wonderful look at the way modern gay cinema began.