Hopkins To Play Lear In Latest Film Adaptation

  Anthony Hopkins will be the next actor to take on the role of King Lear in the latest film adaptation of Shakespeare's drama, various sources are now reporting. The film will be directed by Josh Michael Stern and will begin shooting in Ireland and England early next year. It is rumored that Gweneth Paltrow, Naomi Watts and Keira Knightly will be playing the King's daughters, Goneril, Regan and Cordelia.

King Lear is believed to have been written between 1603 and 1606, and is considered one of Shakespeare's greatest works. The play is based on the legend of King Leir of Britain. It has been widely adapted for stage and screen, with the part of Lear being played by many of the world's most accomplished actors.

The play centers around the decision of a father, King Lear to divide his estate among his daughter according to how much love they express in a speech. His two oldest daughters immediately jump on the opportunity to outdo the other but when Cordelia refuses to participate she is disowned. After he divides his riches between his two eldest daughters he begins to realize their feelings for him have gone cold once they have their money and Cordelia was his only loyal daughter.

Photo Credit Retna Ltd.