Mr. Burton

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Mr. Burton

2025

2h 4m

Biography

Drama

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84%

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19 Reviews

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Fewer than 50 Ratings

Mr. Burton tells the true story of the relationship between Port Talbot schoolmaster Philip Burton and a wild young schoolboy called Richard Jenkins, the son of a wayward drunk. Richard dreamed of becoming an actor, but his ambitions were in danger of being derailed by a combination of family trouble, the pressure of war, and his own lack of discipline. Mr. Burton recognized the raw talent in his pupil, becoming his tutor, strict taskmaster and eventually his adoptive father.

Lucy Peters

Little White Lies

Lawtey delivers a dynamic performance considering the big boots of his subject, although the film suffers the expected issue of casting any actor to represent the singular and iconic star.

Rated: 3/5

Apr 7, 2025

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Kevin Maher

The Times (UK)

It’s a bold movie that tries to find a feelgood drama in the life of Richard Burton, but such is the pitch of this tender biopic.

Rated: 4/5

Apr 7, 2025

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Jonathan Romney

Financial Times

[Jones] can signify more with a gently furrowed brow than most performers can at full fury — which very nearly makes this mostly bland film into an implicit essay on contrasting acting styles.

Rated: 2/5

Apr 7, 2025

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Elsa Fernández-Santos

El Pais (Spain)

Toby Jones is moving as the theater-loving teacher who instilled Shakespeare's religion in his student. His performance can handle anything, even the unbearable underscoring of the soundtrack. [Full review in Spanish]

Jun 13, 2025

Full Review

Terry Staunton

Radio Times

Lawtey is the true star of the piece, a mesmerising presence both in early scenes as the rough-around-the-edges pupil and in latter stages of the narrative, when his volatile personality threatens to derail a thespian career before it's barely begun.

Rated: 4/5

Apr 12, 2025

Full Review

Tom Shone

Sunday Times (UK)

Presumably, the film didn’t want anything that interfered with its inspirational teacher narrative — To Sir, with Love with coal dust on top — but it forces Jones into a certain insipidness.

Rated: 3/5

Apr 7, 2025

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jan h

Beautiful film, I think Richard Burton must have been a very challenging character to play but was very well portrayed by Harry . A very multi layered film with some fantastic acting.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

06/09/25

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Charlotte C

Beautiful film! Harry Lawtey (of Industry fame) is magnificent - despite big Burton shoes to fill. He transitions from gawky teen to acclaimed actor with great finesse, and what a voice! Toby Jones is an excellent character actor. The scene in which he finally looses his rag is spellbinding. Lesley Manville is not subtle enough for film, in my view, but she lightens the tone. The screenplay is strong, authentic with lovely touches of humour. The scenery gorgeous. This film will appeal across generations - take the family!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/20/25

Full Review

Ian C

One of those rare films that appeals to all. Not only a Welsh icon but a Hollywood superstar. Perfectly cast, stupendously directed and some breathtaking locations to boot. This film will clean up at the awards.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/12/25

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David L

Mr. Burton is a beautifully crafted film that lingers long after the credits roll. Anchored by a standout performance from its lead, the story weaves heart, humor, and a quiet intensity into a truly unforgettable experience. The direction is assured, allowing small moments to breathe while never losing narrative momentum. Every frame feels intentional, with gorgeous cinematography and a haunting score that elevates the emotional depth. Mr. Burton is that rare kind of film—intimate yet expansive, personal yet universally resonant. It’s a moving, masterfully told story that deserves to be seen, felt, and celebrated.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars

05/08/25

Full Review

Matilda J

I loved this film so much I've seen it several times at the cinema and taken different people with me each time! Beautifully acted, and a moving story. Definitely recommend.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/08/25

Full Review

Jamie M

There aren't enough superlatives in the English (or Welsh) dictionary to describe this masterpiece of a film. Career defining performance from Harry Lawtey and the Best of British when it comes to the acting chops of Toby and Lesley. Aimee-Ffion should always be at the forefront of every casting director's minds. Marc Evans should be a household name, whatever he touches, turns to absolute gold. Can't recommend this film enough. Go see it! You will not be disappointed.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/09/25

Full Review

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Marc Evans

Director

Harry Lawtey

Young Richard Burton

Toby Jones

Philip Burton

Aimee-Ffion Edwards

Cis

Lesley Manville

Ma Smith

Aneurin Barnard

Elfed

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Synopsis

Mr. Burton tells the true story of the relationship between Port Talbot schoolmaster Philip Burton and a wild young schoolboy called Richard Jenkins, the son of a wayward drunk. Richard dreamed of becoming an actor, but his ambitions were in danger of being derailed by a combination of family trouble, the pressure of war, and his own lack of discipline. Mr. Burton recognized the raw talent in his pupil, becoming his tutor, strict taskmaster and eventually his adoptive father.

Director: Marc Evans
Producer: Ed Talfan, Josh Hyams, Trevor Matthews, Hannah Thomas
Screenwriter: Josh Hyams, Tom Bullough
Production Co: BBC Wales
Genre: Biography, Drama
Original Language: English
Runtime: 2h 4m