A 'Beautiful' Tribute to a Welsh Icon
The BBC is set to broadcast a critically acclaimed period drama tonight that delves into the formative years of one of Britain's most legendary actors. The film, titled Mr Burton, celebrates the incredible true story of Welsh global superstar Richard Burton and has been praised by audiences as "nothing less than perfect." This moving biopic offers a poignant look at the relationship that shaped a theatrical titan.
The Story Behind Mr Burton
Mr Burton will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Monday, 10 November at 8pm. The narrative is set in Port Talbot in 1942, focusing on a wayward schoolboy named Richard Jenkins, played with remarkable skill by Industry star Harry Lawtey. Jenkins is caught between a struggling family, the ongoing war, and his own burgeoning ambitions. His life takes a dramatic turn when his natural talent for drama captures the attention of his dedicated teacher, Philip Burton.
BAFTA winner Toby Jones delivers a standout performance as the teacher who takes the young man under his wing. Under Philip's strict tutelage and with the kindness of his landlady, Ma Smith – portrayed by Academy Award nominee Lesley Manville – Richard begins to thrive. However, as the world of acting opens up to him, the burdens of his past threaten to derail his future forever.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Praise
The film, which won a BAFTA Cymru award, has garnered significant praise. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, one viewer awarded it five stars, writing: "Very well done. If you had any idea of who you thought Richard Burton was this movie will dispel everything. A true story and a very human one."
Another fan highlighted the acting, noting, "Harry's voice and character representation on-screen was nothing less than perfect." The performance of Toby Jones was also singled out for particular praise, with one commenter stating it would make you a fan if you weren't already. A third review described the film as "beautiful," applauding Lawtey's ability to transition from a gawky teen to an acclaimed actor and Jones's "spellbinding" performance.
The supporting cast adds considerable depth to the production, featuring Aimee-Ffion Edwards as Cis, Aneurin Bernard as Elfed, and Steffan Rhodri as Burton’s father. Described as intimate yet expansive, and personal yet universally resonant, Mr Burton is being hailed as a masterfully told story that deserves to be celebrated.
