Final Installment of PBS's THE HOLLOW CROWN to Air this Week, Today

"Henry V," the final installment of Shakespeare's four history chronicle plays comprising "The Hollow Crown" airs October 11 at 9 p.m. on THIRTEEN's"Great Performances" on PBS stations (check local listings).

Arguably the best known of the four plays in the series, "Henry V" was filmed memorably by Sir Laurence Olivier and Kenneth Branagh respectively. The current film stars Tom Hiddleston as the heroic monarch and was directed byThea Sharrock.

Simon Russell Beale and Julie Walters make return appearances here, and the star-studded cast includes John Hurt, Anton Lesser, James Laurenson, Owen Teale, Tom Brooke, Lambert Wilson, the late Richard Griffiths, Geraldine Chaplin, and Mélanie Thierry.

In "Henry V," Prince Hal has settled onto the throne and has the makings of a fine King. The French Ambassador (Jérémie Covillault) brings a challenge from the French Dauphin. Inspired by his courtiers, including Exeter (Anton Lesser) and York (Paterson Joseph), Henry swears that he will, with all force, answer this challenge. The Chorus (John Hurt) tells of England's preparations for war and Henry's army sails for France. After Exeter's diplomacy is rebuffed by the French King (Lambert Wilson), Henry lays a heavy siege and captures Harfleur. The French now take Henry's claims seriously and challenge the English army to battle at Agincourt. Henry and his meager forces prove Victorious against all odds.

Photo credit: Nick Briggs