If you haven’t seen Sarah Lancashire’s “magnificent” movie The Dresser then now’s your chance, as it’s currently available to watch on not one, but two free streaming services. As well as boasting a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, the drama is also Lancashire’s highest-rated project – making it a pretty safe choice for your next movie night.
Set in London during the Blitz, The Dresser centres around an aging theatre actor – referred to only as ‘Sir’ – and his backstage dresser Norman. The story explores the enduring relationship between Norman and Sir, as the egotistical actor confronts his own vulnerability and irrelevance, both on stage and in his personal life.
The drama, which is based on the play by Ronald Harwood, first debuted on BBC Two in 2015. It is now available to stream for free on Plex and Rakuten TV.
Playground Television
Related: Sarah Lancashire’s highest-rated drama hailed a “masterpiece” and ‘best on TV’ gets new UK home
Veteran actors Anthony Hopkins and Ian McKellan lead the cast as Sir and Norman, respectively. They are joined by Hamnet’s Emily Watson, The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Vanessa Kirby, Happy Valley‘s Lancashire and Slow Horses’ Tom Brooke.
Meanwhile, Richard Eyre directed the adaptation from the screenplay that he also wrote.
The Dresser received a positive reception from critics following its premiere, and still holds a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes from 14 reviews. Los Angeles Times called it “just as magnificent, powerful and enthralling as you would imagine”.
“It’s delightful and winning, both sad and funny and touching on so many levels. Welcome this little gem into your arms if you can,” said The Hollywood Reporter.
Playground Television/Joss Barratt
Related: Sarah Lancashire’s “magnificent” forgotten drama that’s ‘ultimate comfort TV’ lands new UK home
“It is deliciously funny and moving. It is also profoundly about why people perform and create art. And it is heartbreakingly accurate about actors and the theatre,” wrote The Globe and Mail.
Critics also praised the powerful dynamic between the two lead stars, with The Blu Spot writing: “There’s no denying that Sir Anthony Hopkins and Sir Ian McKellen deliver stunning performances that alone make the film worth seeing.”
Vogue added: “The best part of The Dresser is watching Hopkins and McKellen, two actors at the peak of their considerable powers, playing off each other.”
The new edition of Living Legends, a 100-page all-colour celebration of Sir David Attenborough, is here! Buy Sir David Attenborough in newsagents or online.
Divya is a freelance writer with experience in entertainment and lifestyle news. Described as a “telly addict” since childhood, Divya was able to translate her interests into a BJTC-accredited, Honours degree in Journalism and Media. After working in communications and marketing, Divya joined Digital Spy as a Freelance News Reporter. She has also written for various publications including Metro, Asian World News and TwitCelebGossip; as well as interviews, features and reviews on her own blog. Divya prides herself on her TV, film and showbiz knowledge, always offering (not so) fun facts to her long-suffering friends and family. From soaps to superheroes, Divya is the go-to person for tailored recommendations and up to date information. Â