Being Shakespeare (2012): cast, story & where to watch
2012 · Film
Released in 2012, Being Shakespeare is a notable film directed by John Wyver.
What it’s about. Featuring a tour de force performance from Simon Callow, Being Shakespeare is a one-man show about the life and work of the world’s greatest playwright. Written by the renowned scholar Jonathan Bate, and taking its cue from Jacques’ famous ‘Seven Ages of Man’ speech in As You Like It, the drama traces Shakespeare’s life from his birth in Stratford-upon-Avon in 1564 to his burial there fifty-two years later. Weaving together this story with extracts from many of Shakespeare’s most famous plays, Simon Callow presents a vivid and very human portrait of the man and of the Elizabethan world in which he lived. Recorded before an audience during the play’s triumphant London run, Being Shakespeare is both a wonderful introduction to the author and a richly nuanced, funny and fascinating study for those who already love his plays.
Who’s in it. Being Shakespeare stars Simon Callow.
Where to watch. In US you can rent or buy it from Amazon Video. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Being Shakespeare page.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Being Shakespeare (2012)?
- In US, Being Shakespeare is available to rent or buy from Amazon Video. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Who stars in Being Shakespeare?
- Being Shakespeare stars Simon Callow.