The film presents a reasonably true-to-the-original telling of Orwell’s narrative concerning unchecked authority, rebellion, and control, though it feels somewhat shortened. However, John Hurt’s acting truly elevates this adaptation. His portrayal of the timid "Winston," an ordinary office worker in the Ministry of Truth, is intensely felt as he embodies a man discovering his own methods to defy the oppressive regime of "Big Brother." Every action, statement, and even thought seems to be under surveillance, potentially placing his life at considerable risk—a danger that’s likely to escalate when he meets “Julia” (Suzanna Hamilton), and together they start considering possibilities previously deemed impossible. Richard Burton begins to have a noticeable impact roughly halfway through the film, with his precisely controlled voice and deliberate speaking style generating an atmosphere of agonizing threat that is palpable. Although his screen time is limited, his appearances alongside Winston add fresh layers of meaning to the dynamic between pursuer and pursued. The viewing experience is harsh, both physically and emotionally, and the incorporation of military footage combined with the production’s straightforward aesthetic lends a raw quality and philosophical severity as the story progresses into a society governed by technology, dictators, and apathy nearly eighty years after the book's creation. It’s a depressing film!

Source on TMDB