Based on a remarkable true story, discover how the poor son of a miner became one of the greatest actors the world has ever known, with the help of an unlikely mentor.

In the Welsh town of Port Talbot, 1942, Richard Jenkins (Harry Lawtey) lives as a wayward schoolboy, caught between the pressures of his struggling family, a devastating war, and his own ambitions. However, a new opportunity arises when Richard’s natural talent for drama catches the attention of his teacher, Philip Burton (BAFTA winner Toby Jones).

Taking Richard under his wing, the young man thrives thanks to Philip’s strict tutelage and the guidance of kindly landlady, Ma Smith (Academy Award nominee Lesley Manville). However, as the acting world comes within Richard’s reach, the burden of his past risks holding him back forever.

Running Time: 124 mins

Cast: Toby Jones, Harry Lawtey, Lesley Manville

Director: Marc Evans

Writers: Tom Bullough, Josh Hyams

Producers: Ed Talfan, Josh Hyams, Hannah Thomas, Trevor Matthews

Before the film, Monty Lit Fest will be running a panel discussion on the life of Philip Burton with one of the film’s producers, Ed Talfan, his biographer, Angela V John and Richard Burton’s niece, Sian Owen. Details here.

Joint tickets for this session and the film cost £15.00.