Plot Analysis Summary
The reference presents a Shakespeare television adaptation through its source play, theatrical lineage, principal credits, and broadcast history.
Story Structure — 4 Plot Phases
The Production Is Identified
The reference identifies the work as a videotaped ATV television production of Shakespeare's play. Its title and central credited roles establish the production's subject and principal cast.
Key Events
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Television Production Identified — The reference identifies the work as a videotaped television production of Shakespeare's play. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony, Enobarbus
Location: ATV television production
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Shakespeare Source Confirmed — The production adapts William Shakespeare's 1606 play of the same name. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony
Location: Shakespearean stage adaptation
Stage Origins Reframed
The production is connected to William Shakespeare's 1606 play and Trevor Nunn's Royal Shakespeare Company staging. This establishes its theatrical adaptation lineage.
Key Events
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Principal Casting Announced — Janet Suzman, Richard Johnson, and Patrick Stewart are identified in the principal roles. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony, Enobarbus
Location: Television production
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Royal Company Adaptation — The television version is described as an adaptation of Trevor Nunn's RSC production. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony, Enobarbus
Location: Royal Shakespeare Company production
Credits And Casting
Jon Scoffield is credited as director, while the reference identifies the three principal performers. It also notes small roles for Ben Kingsley and Tim Pigott-Smith.
Key Events
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Television Direction Credited — Jon Scoffield is credited as director of the production. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony, Enobarbus
Location: ATV production
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Supporting Cast Noted — The reference notes small roles for then-little-known Ben Kingsley and Tim Pigott-Smith. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony, Enobarbus
Location: Television production
Distribution Legacy
ATV's production and ITC's international distribution are summarized. The reference closes with the production's stated distinction concerning U.S. commercial television premieres.
Key Events
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International Distribution — ATV produced the work, while ITC distributed it internationally. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony, Enobarbus
Location: International television distribution
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American Broadcast Distinction — The reference calls it the last made-for-TV Shakespeare adaptation to premiere on U.S. commercial television as of 2014. Characters: Cleopatra, Antony, Enobarbus
Location: United States commercial television