The Dresser

The Dresser is a compelling British drama film from 1983, directed by Peter Yates, which provides a poignant look into the world of theatre during World War II. Starring Albert Finney, Tom Courtenay, and Edward Fox, the film is an adaptation of Ronald Harwood's acclaimed play of the same name, which draws heavily from Harwood's own experiences as a dresser to the actor-manager Sir Donald Wolfit, who is said to be the inspiration for Finney's character.

Set in the backdrop of World War II, The Dresser centers around the turbulent relationship between an aging, tyrannical Shakespearean actor, who is simply known as "Sir" (played by Albert Finney), and his loyal dresser, Norman (played by Tom Courtenay). Sir, who leads a struggling touring theatre company, is seen as a once-great luminary of the stage who is now desperately trying to cling to his former glory, despite the challenges posed by air raids, the creeping specter of his declining health, and his own failing memory that threatens his ability to perform.

Norman, the fastidious and devoted personal assistant, serves as Sir's dresser. He attends to Sir with a mix of fussiness, mothering, and plain-speaking, often cajoling and comforting his charge to help him mount each night's performance. The character of Norman is finely crafted, presenting a complex mixture of emotions that include both admiration for and resentment of the man he serves. Norman's life appears to be consumed by his relationship with Sir, and his identity seems intertwined with the continued success of the actor he is bound to.

Through its runtime, The Dresser explores the themes of loyalty, ambition, and the erosion of the human spirit through aging. It is as much a study of the personal dynamics between two men who are in many ways opposites, as it is a passionate love letter to the life in theatre. One's blustery, faltering bravado contrasted against the other's quiet, suffering dedication creates a dynamic narrative tension that propels the film's drama.

Tom Courtenay's Norman is a portrayal of a man of depth and subtlety, who oscillates between deference and control of the mercurial Sir. On the other side, Albert Finney's Sir is a force of nature, capturing the spectrum of emotions from bombastic pride to the heart-wrenching vulnerability of an artist facing the end of his career. Their relationship is captivating and fraught with an unspoken dependency, underscored by the looming dread of a world at war and the uncertainty it brings.

Supporting characters, notably played by a strong cast including Edward Fox as "Oxenby", another actor in the company, contribute to the film's texture, each adding a layer to the story of a theatre troupe persevering in the face of adversity. Oxenby provides a counterpoint to Sir and Norman, offering a youthful if disillusioned perspective on the theatrical world they are all a part of.

The Dresser, although set within the confines of the theatre and the actor’s quarters, captures the era's atmosphere diligently. The aesthetic of the film is striking, with its depiction of period costumes and stage settings offering authenticity. In the background, the sound of air-raid sirens and the glimpses of wartime Britain remind the viewer of the stark contrast between the world inside the theatre and the harsh realities outside.

One of the standout features of the film is the palpable love for Shakespeare that permeates it. Not only does Sir wrestle with the Bard's complex roles, but the script itself is rich with allusions and direct references to some of the most famed Shakespearean plays. The dialogue often reflects the rhythm and cadence of a Shakespearean script, demonstrating the scriptwriter's intent to pay homage to the role the playwright has in the world of performance.

Director Peter Yates skillfully balances the intimate nature of the character study with the broader themes of the impact of war, the transient nature of theater, and the inevitability of change. The Dresser is not just a behind-the-curtain peek at theatre life, but a contemplative narrative on the human condition, aging, and the inexorable march of time.

In conclusion, The Dresser is a powerful and profoundly human film about the theatre world. With standout performances from its lead actors, strong support from its ensemble cast, and meticulous direction, it is not only an intriguing story about the relationship between two contrasting personalities but also an affectionate tribute to thespians and the enduring power of stagecraft. Through its exploration of complex characters and their struggles, the film emerges as a stirring and affecting portrayal of resilience, dedication, and the enduring passion for artistry.