Controversial interpretation of Ibsen play

Press, 30 September 1988, Page 11

Controversial interpretation of Ibsen play

It is not often that a single play is made into a film twice in one year, but in 1973 two separate British producers both presented their interpretations of the Norwegian playwright, Henrik Ibsen’s classic tale, “A Doll’s House.” One version, directed by Patrick Garland, was a straight film adaptation of the play and featured a distinguished cast, including Claire Bloom, Anthony Hopkins and Ralph Richardson.

The second version, which is today’s Friday Matinee at 12.40 p.m. on Two, is a more controversial interpretation of the play, produced and directed by Joseph Losey* Starring Jane Fonda, David Warner and Trevor Howard, it was made during a period

when Fonda was regarded as one of the more radical actors on the scene. Indeed, the theme of a woman’s search for her independence was precisely the sort of political issue which was close to Fonda’s heart.. The story, set in Norway, revolves around Nora and Torvald Helmer. Married for eight years, the Helmers appear to have a happy life, with a comfortable home and a family. But when an old school friend of Nora’s arrives in town, penniless and looking for a job, Nora begins to realise that her life is not as well ordered as it seems. “A Doll’s House” stars Jane Fonda as Nora, David Warner as Torvald and Delphine Seyrig as as Kristine Linde.