Harry Lawtey (Industry) is set to star as young Richard Burton in the UK feature ‘Mr. Burton,’ directed by Marc Evans. Filming is scheduled to begin in July 2024, as confirmed by Deadline.
Directed by Evans from a screenplay by Tom Bullough and Josh Hyams, the film also stars BAFTA winner Toby Jones (Mr Bates vs. The Post Office) and Oscar nominee Lesley Manville (The Crown), Aimee-Ffion Edwards (Slow Horses, Peaky Blinders) and Aneurin Barnard (Dunkirk).
What is ‘Mr. Burton’ About?
According to the film’s official description, ‘Mr. Burton’ portrays the true story of the relationship between Welsh schoolmaster Philip Burton (Jones) and a wild young schoolboy named Richard Jenkins (Lawtey). 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 and made it his mission to fight for him, becoming his tutor, strict taskmaster, and eventually his adoptive father. Richard Jenkins would go on to become Richard Burton, the iconic actor nominated for seven Oscars and known for his turbulent marriage to Elizabeth Taylor.
Produced by Talfan (Havoc) and Hannah Thomas (I Am Not A Witch) for Severn Screen, with Josh Hyams (Shoshana) producing for Promise Pictures, the film is being financed by BBC Wales and Ffilm Cymru Wales in partnership with Creative Wales. Independent Entertainment will handle sales at the Cannes market and is also executive-producing the film. Further financing partners are currently in talks.
Lawtey is an emerging British actor recognized for his roles in the popular BBC-HBO series ‘Industry,’ ITVX’s ‘You And Me,’ and his supporting role in Netflix’s ‘The Pale Blue Eye,’ alongside Toby Jones. Additionally, he will play a key role in the upcoming DC’s ‘Joker: Folie A Deux.’
When is the Release Date for ‘Mr. Burton’?
‘Mr. Burton’ is scheduled for release in 2025, coinciding with the centenary of Richard Burton’s birth.
Source: Deadline
