A film about the formative years of legendary actor Richard Burton, set in his Welsh mining village, is set for release during the centenary of his birth in 2025.
The film stars Harry Lawtey as a young Burton and Toby Jones as Philip Burton, the teacher who transformed his life by nurturing his talent for drama.
Richard Burton, born Richard Jenkins in Pontrhydyfen, Afan Valley, in 1925, rose from humble beginnings to become one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors.
Known for his roles in Cleopatra, Under Milk Wood, and various Shakespearean plays, Burton’s life was as dramatic as his performances.
Producer Ed Talfan explained that the film sheds light on the profound relationship between Burton and his mentor, Philip Burton.
“This relationship had a significant impact on his life and career,” Talfan said.
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From Richard Jenkins to Richard Burton
The film tells the true story of Richard Jenkins, a wayward schoolboy whose father was a miner.
Growing up in an impoverished Welsh community during the 1930s and 1940s, young Richard faced many challenges.
His natural talent for drama caught the eye of his teacher Philip Burton, who became his mentor and later his legal guardian. It was then that Richard adopted the Burton surname.
Toby Jones, who plays Philip, is joined by Lesley Manville as landlady Ma Smith, who helps Richard secure his first acting role.
The film also features Steffan Rhodri as Burton’s father Dic Jenkins, Aimee-Ffion Edwards as his sister Cis, and Aneurin Barnard as his brother-in-law Elfed.
Director Marc Evans and writer Tom Bullough, both proud Welshmen, focus the story on Burton’s late teenage years during World War II, when Philip Burton began tutoring him.
This period set the stage for Burton’s rise to global fame.
A Story of Struggle and Stardom
The film explores not just Richard’s acting journey but also the personal struggles that shaped him.
The trailer hints at the roots of his alcoholism and highlights the prejudice working-class actors faced in the 1940s and early 1950s.
Despite the challenges, Burton’s story is one of triumph.
“He came from a very tough, impoverished background and made this incredible leap to global stardom,” said producer Ed Talfan. “He’s the North Star of Welsh cinema.”
Actors of Burton’s generation were often expected to adopt “Queen’s English,” but Burton embraced his Welsh roots.
“He managed to change his voice without sacrificing his Welshness,” Talfan added. “He was a breath of fresh air—much like Anthony Hopkins later on.”
National Pride and Enduring Legacy
Richard Burton’s story continues to inspire generations, embodying the rags-to-riches dream. His talent, charm, and unrelenting pride in his heritage made him a national treasure.
The film, which opens in April 2025, is being hailed as a moving tribute to one of Wales’ greatest stars, capturing the early struggles that shaped the man who would become a Hollywood legend.
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