National Theatre Live: War Horse (2014)
A breathtaking filmed stage production bringing Michael Morpurgo's beloved story of loyalty and survival to cinema screens worldwide.
National Theatre Live: War Horse - Movie Information
- Original Title: National Theatre Live: War Horse
- Release Year: 2014
- Directed by: Tim Van Someren, Marianne Elliott et al.
- Type: Movie
- Genres: War, Drama
- Runtime: 3h 0m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 27, 2014 (United Kingdom - 12A), February 24, 2021 (Australia)
- Alternative Titles: War Horse (UK)
- Production Companies: National Theatre
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
National Theatre Live: War Horse - Plot
Based on Michael Morpurgo's novel and adapted for the stage by Nick Stafford, War Horse takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France.
National Theatre Live: War Horse - Trailer
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National Theatre Live: War Horse - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Tim Van Someren
- Marianne Elliott
- Tom Morris
Main Cast
- Ashleigh Cheadle
- Tamsin Fessey
- Emma Thornett
- Nicholas Hart
- Andrew London
- Sam Wilmott
- Nigel Allen
- Michael Taibi
- Lewis Peploe
- Tom Meredith
Producers
- Emma Keith
National Theatre Live: War Horse - FAQs
Is National Theatre Live: War Horse based on a true story?
It's not based on a single true story, but it draws on the real experiences of horses and soldiers during World War I. Michael Morpurgo was inspired by veterans he met in Devon. The novel, stage adaptation, and this filmed production all reflect genuine historical truths about the war's devastating impact.
How are the horses portrayed in War Horse on stage?
The horses are brought to life by teams of three performers each, operating stunning life-size puppets created by the Handspring Puppet Company. For Joey, three actors — controlling the head, heart, and hind — work in perfect unison. The result is so convincing that audiences quickly forget they're watching puppets at all.
Who directed National Theatre Live: War Horse?
The stage production was co-directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, both acclaimed theatre directors. The filmed version capturing the National Theatre performance was directed by Tim Van Someren, who specialises in bringing live stage productions to cinema screens for the NT Live series.
What is National Theatre Live: War Horse about?
The story follows Joey, a young horse sold to the British cavalry at the outbreak of World War I, and Albert, the Devon farm boy desperate to find him. Their journey spans the muddy trenches of France and the chaos of battle, exploring loyalty, courage, and the unbreakable bond between human and animal.
What makes the NT Live War Horse different from the film?
Unlike Steven Spielberg's 2011 film adaptation, this NT Live production captures the celebrated National Theatre stage show, complete with its iconic life-size horse puppets and theatrical storytelling. It preserves the raw emotional power of live performance, offering a fundamentally different — and for many, more affecting — experience than the cinematic version.
When was National Theatre Live: War Horse released?
The NT Live filming was released on February 27, 2014 in the United Kingdom with a 12A certificate, and later screened in Australia on February 24, 2021. It was broadcast to cinemas worldwide as part of the National Theatre's acclaimed NT Live programme, which brings stage productions to global audiences.
Did War Horse win any awards at the National Theatre?
The stage production of War Horse was a major award winner, taking home five Olivier Awards including Best New Play when it premiered in 2007. It also won multiple Tony Awards on Broadway, including Best Play. The production is widely regarded as one of the most celebrated British theatrical achievements of the 21st century.
What are similar films to National Theatre Live: War Horse?
If War Horse moved you, you might love Suite Française (2015), Paths of Glory (1957), Grand Illusion (1937), or All Quiet on the Western Front (1930) — all powerful explorations of war's human cost. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) and Lawrence of Arabia (1962) are also excellent companions for fans of epic wartime drama.
More About National Theatre Live: War Horse
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