Kenneth Branagh Books

An in-depth look behind the scenes of the making of Frankenstein. The book contains the full screenplay, biographies of the stars, detailed sections on casting, sets, camera-work, and the philosophy behind the film. It also features a study of the make-up of Robert de Niro as the monster.

Featuring the images of some of the world's most famous stage and film actors, these additions to the all-new Oxford School Shakespeare introduce--and enthrall--young people to one of the greatest writers of all time. This season brings revised editions of five of the Bard's most famous plays--As You Like It, Othello, Hamlet, Love's Labour Lost and The Taming of the Shrew. Designed specifically for students unfamiliar with Shakespeare's rich literary legacy, these new editions present Shakespeare's sometimes-intimidating Middle English in a way that is easy-to-read and engaging for ages twelve and up. The notes and introductions have been completely revised, allowing unprecedented clarity and accessibility. Featuring new covers and new illustrations--including photos from recent productions of Shakespeare's plays from around the world--Oxford School Shakespeare brings all the pleasure of these literary treasures to life.

Henry V established Kenneth Branagh as one of the most gifted and versatile film artists of our time. Branagh wrote the screenplay, starred in, and directed the film to astounding critical and popular acclaim. With a marvelous cast, including himself as Henry V, Emma Thompson as Katherine, Derek Jacobi as the Chorus, Ian Holm as Fluellen, Paul Scofield as the King of France, Judi Dench as Mistress Quickly, and Robbie Coltrane as Falstaff, Branagh brings the play into contemporary times, adding a darker and harsher sensibility. Included here are Branagh's screenplay and introduction, and dramatic stills from the film.

Kenneth Branagh's much praised adaptation of HENRY V revolutionised Shakespeare in the cinema, giving a new youthful and contemporary energy to a well-known play and bringing it to a vast audience around the world. He has now directed and adapted MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, with a starry international cast that includes Denzil Washington, Emma Thompson, Michael 'Batman' Keaton, Ben Elton, Keanu Reaves as Don John, and of course Kenneth Branagh himself as Benedick. Lavishly illustrated with stills from the film, and with a foreword about the film and screenplay by Kenneth Branagh, MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING will bring exciting new dimensions to one of Shakespeare's most mature and sophisticated comedies, and serve as a lasting souvenir of the film.