Henry V (1944 film)

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Henry V is a 1944 British film adaptation of William Shakespeare's play. The film is directed, co-written, produced by, and stars Laurence Olivier in the title role. It was Olivier's first film directorial effort. The cast also features Renée Asherson as Katherine, Robert Newton as Pistol, and Leslie Banks as the chorus. The play was adapted for the screen by Olivier, Dallas Bower, and Alan Dent. The score was composed by William Walton. The film was made near the end of World War II and was intended as a morale booster for Britain. Consequently, it was partly funded by the British government. The film was originally "dedicated to the 'Commandos and Airborne Troops of Great Britain the spirit of whose ancestors it has been humbly attempted to recapture.'" Henry V was produced by Two Cities Films and distributed by Eagle-Lion. It premiered on 22 November 1944. It was both a critical and commercial success, and has been credited with legitimizing screen adaptations of Shakespeare. It was...

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