No no! It’s not what you think. The mighty Gandalf the grey has certainly not fallen from his theatrical graces, but has instead taken a role that is actually both entertaining and educational. Working with the British Film Institute, he is set to host a series of public tours dedicated to London locations portrayed in his film Richard III (1995). These include locations such as the Battersea Power Station, St Pancras Station and the Tate Modern.
This move is a part of the BFI’s project celebrating Shakespeare on film, and is to herald festivities with one of its most memorable adaptations. While speaking with the BFI (through the BBC), he said “I’ve always thought it might be fun to take bus tours around the sited of Richard III… You would watch snippets of the film sitting in the coach and then arrive at the actual location and see it”.
Directed by Richard Loncraine, the film depicted Britain as a Fascist country during the 1930’s. It made use of Nazi Germany as inspiration and visual backdrop, all the while modernizing one of Shakespeare’s most famous historical plays. The film consisted of an impressive cast line up, which included Dame Maggie Smith, Annette Benning, and Robert Downey Junior starring alongside McKellen.
An exciting idea perhaps? Maybe even a chance to meet the man himself? Whatever reason it is we’re sold!
#Peace.Love.IanMcKellan
