Mauser right between the eyes. He removes his gas mask...it's Richard.The graphic violence of the opening sequence sets the tone for the rest of the movie, which never shrinks from the sight of blood. One scene in particular comes to mind, where Lord Rivers (played by Robert Downey, Jr.) is lounging on his bed with his girlfriend. Just as they are about to get more intimate, Rivers abruptly meets his end when a very sharp knife comes up through the bed and emerges from his chest. A very Friday the 13th-esque moment for a Shakespeare remake, and typical of the film's attraction to graphic violence.There's also a little nudity and sex (very little) thrown in just for fun, after Lady Margaret Plantagenet (Queen Elizabeth's daughter) marries Henry, Earl of Richmond (who later becomes King Henry VII), and they are seen just before the final battle. It's the morning after their wedding night, and Margaret is seen nude (from the back only, though). Richmond is also nude--but only seen from the waist up. That scene was not in the original play, but the dialogue is convincing enough so that novices will probably be fooled.3. The Grand FinaleWell, we've been building up to it for the whole movie; the final confrontation between Richard and his enemies. Olivier, faithfully sticking to the classic style, engages Richmond in a final duel to the death. There is great swordplay here, and Olivier's skill is plain to see. However, it again ends rather bloodlessly (that is, there is a lack of actual gore, as seen by the audience); rather a comedown for the modern audience.McKellan, on the other hand, makes full use of his available materials, and starts the party with a bang as Richmond nails Richard's camp with an air strike, disabling the troop train Richard is on and generally throwing the entire camp into a state of chaos. Richard quickly commandeers a jeep and races through the battle, trying to rally his men. Unfortunately, he comes fac...
