Stafford Film Theatre – Mr. Burton

January 27, 7.30pm

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Mark Evans / UK 2024 / 124min / Cert 12A

Wales 1942. School teacher Philip Burton (Toby Jones) sees untapped potential in his 17-year-old student Richard Jenkins (Harry Lawtey).

He takes the boy under his wing, teaching him acting craft and elocution, before officially becoming his legal guardian. Richard undergoes an astonishing Pygmalion-like transformation throughout the film and, having changed his name, becomes a recognisable Richard Burton for his RSC debut.

Toby Jones gives a nuanced performance with quiet, sometimes troubled, determination, supported by Ma Smith (Lesley Manville), who exudes convincing Welsh charm, whilst we watch as a star is born. “A note-perfect screenplay” The Irish Times.