Film 'Mr. Burton' Explores Richard Burton's Early Life

The new film 'Mr Burton' explores the early life of Richard Burton, focusing on the pivotal role played by his mentor, Philip Burton, portrayed by Toby Jones. The film highlights Richard's challenging upbringing in Wales and Philip's influence in shaping him into the iconic actor, including teaching him Shakespeare and facilitating his scholarship to Oxford. Harry Lawtey, who plays the young Richard, expressed the pressure of embodying such an iconic Welsh figure and undertook extensive research, including learning Welsh accents and lines. Critics, however, note that while the first half of the film is engaging, it ultimately falls short in later sections. Elizabeth Taylor famously remarked on Philip's significance, stating, 'Without Philip Burton there never would have been a Richard Burton.' The film marks the centenary of Richard Burton's birth, celebrating his extraordinary journey from a coal miner's son to a Hollywood icon.