King Lear (1910 film)

King Lear (1910 film) is an Italian silent film adaptation of William Shakespeare's play King Lear. Directed by Gerolamo Lo Savio, it stars Ermete Novelli in the titular role. It is notable as one of the earliest film adaptations of the play and for featuring a renowned stage actor of the time in the lead role. The film is a condensed version of the play, focusing primarily on the main plot points involving Lear's descent into madness after dividing his kingdom amongst his daughters, Goneril and Regan, and being rejected by them. The film's visual style and acting were influenced by the theatrical traditions of the era. It is considered a significant, though fragmented, piece of film history, as complete copies are not known to exist. Information about its specific cinematography, editing, and complete cast is often limited to contemporary reviews and fragmented historical records.