Freddie Fox’s documentary “Into the Breach” is an ambitious exploration of the profound influence British theater has had on art, culture, and politics over the past century. Touted as a narrative of a theatrical revolution that shaped a nation, the film assembles a star-studded roundtable of acting legends, including Judi Dench, Anthony Hopkins, and Gary Oldman, alongside co-producer Kenneth Branagh. Though enriched with personal anecdotes and historical context, the documentary often balances on the edge, arousing curiosity yet occasionally failing to delve deeply into the wealth of stories offered. These luminaries are not only rich in experience but also adept storytellers, leading to an engaging, if somewhat diluted, historical overview.
The Pioneers of British Theater
Fox begins his account by tracing the roots of British theater back to the early 1900s, shining a spotlight on pivotal figures who transformed the landscape: Lilian Baylis, Derek Jacobi, John Gielgud, Paul Robeson, Claire Bloom, Laurence Olivier, and Joan Plowright, among others. Baylis’s visionary work as a producer and manager at the Old Vic theatre in Waterloo laid the groundwork for what would become London’s National Theatre. Icons like Gielgud, an eventual EGOT winner, and Olivier graced its stage, alongside notable talents such as Michael Redgrave and Ralph Richardson. The narrative evolves to include influential theater directors like Peter Hall and musical impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber, as well as renowned actors such as Peter O’Toole, Helen Mirren, and Stephen Rea, who pushed the boundaries of performance.
Personal Stories Resonate Strongly
As the panel reflects on their connections with these legends, from admiration to rivalry, it becomes evident that personal stories often carry the most weight. A notable moment recounts Gielgud’s arrest for homosexuality in 1953, a time when such acts were criminalized in Britain. The looming threat of ruining his career was alleviated by the support of his co-star Sybil Thorndike, allowing him to perform that evening. Instead of facing judgment, he received a standing ovation, underscoring the deep affection held for such performers by the public. On the other hand, Olivier’s reputation was marred by tales of cruelty, contrasting sharply with the admiration he garnered.
Rivalries and Transformations in Theater
The film hints at deeper rivalries, such as the longstanding competition between the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Founded by Olivier, the National Theatre leaned heavily on classic works, while the RSC, under Hall’s direction, dared to explore contemporary and avant-garde material. Yet, “Into the Breach” moves rapidly past such conflicts, opting for breadth over depth, leaving audiences yearning for more comprehensive storytelling. For instance, while Plowright’s heartfelt praise for her husband is touching, viewers might crave insights into the many young actors he dismissed early in their careers.
Sociocultural Impact of British Theater
Fox occasionally succeeds in illustrating the sociocultural significance of the theater community. For example, he references John Osborne’s “Look Back in Anger,” a play that shifted focus toward the working class, as well as Ian McKellen’s advocacy for gay rights that notably influenced former Prime Minister John Major’s perspective and legislative actions. Meanwhile, Stephen Rea’s Irish theater troupe tackled the complexities of the Troubles, shedding new light on the conflict, and Paul Robeson found a stage in British theater that eluded him in the U.S.
A Master Class in Inspiration
Throughout the roundtable, participants effortlessly recall and share memorable lines from their past productions, bringing to life the rich heritage of British theater for the audience. Oldman’s reminiscence of witnessing Hopkins as Lambert LaRue in “Pravda,” a role that would later aid Hopkins in landing the iconic role of Hannibal Lecter, exemplifies the reverence these actors have for one another. Their engaging exchanges offer a glimpse into the hard work and inspiration that define their status as great actors.
Conclusion: A Plea for More Depth
While “Into the Breach” serves as an informative overview of British theater’s evolution over the last century, its limited runtime means it can only scratch the surface of its sprawling subject matter. Viewers may find themselves wishing for a docuseries or an extended cut to explore the myriad threads of theatrical history more thoroughly. The film only glances at significant transformations, like the impact of Thatcherism and the rise of spectacle in theater, missing opportunities to delve into nuanced discussions. Although the content is undeniably significant, the documentary ultimately leaves audiences wanting more, hinting at the wealth of stories yet to be told.
