Henry V

Top 10 Fun Facts

1. The film's budget was estimated at $9 million, and it grossed $10 million in the US alone. We're assuming those Shakespeare-loving Brits showed it some serious love at the UK box office as well.
2. Branagh's version is often compared with Laurence Olivier's 1994 film of the play, which featured far more stylized sets and, let's face it, a lot less blood and gore.
3. The Chorus, a device Shakespeare used to bridge the theatrical experience with the historical narrative he was telling, appears in Branagh's version wandering through a film studio.
4. Don't watch the movie instead of reading the play, kids - especially if you've got a test coming up. The text is heavily edited, and also features moments from Henry IV Parts 1 and 2.
5. Kenneth Branagh opted to film the script in order. That means you won't find any continuity errors involving a young Christian Bale growth spurt.
6. Branagh picked up a pair of Oscar nominations, for Best Actor and Best Director. Not too shabby for his directorial debut.
7. Although Branagh failed to win either Oscar for which he was nominated, the film did take home one Academy Award: Phyllis Dalton for Best Costume Design. How 'bout those tunics!
8. If you'd like to confuse your ears, check out the French version of the film. Kenneth Branagh's role is dubbed by Gerard Depardieu.
9. When Shakespeare nerds and Trekkies collide: in an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation, Data performs a scene from Henry V and mentions how much he's fascinated by Kenneth Branagh's performance.
10. The role of "Michael Williams" is played by an actor named Michael Williams. Sadly, they couldn't find an actor named Henry V. Although "Kenny B" does sort of rhyme.

Cast

Crew