With Bollingbrooke and Mowbray locked in a dispute over accusations of treason, King Richard II, portrayed by Ben Whishaw, attempts to mediate. However, Richard’s character lacks authority, and when his efforts fail, a jousting match to determine the victor is scheduled. Unable to witness their deaths, the king instead exiles both nobles for six years. Following this, the ruler makes several questionable decisions, including seizing the property of John of Gaunt, played by Sir Patrick Stewart, which only fuels the anger of his son (Kinnear), who returns with considerable power compared to the increasingly isolated and disliked king, leading to a coup. This shift in leadership creates moral dilemmas for those involved, although surprisingly few reservations are shown by supporting characters like Aumerle (Tom Hughes), Northumberland (David Morrisey) and Duke of York (David Suchet). Diverging from many of Shakespeare’s other historical dramas, this play is a straightforward tragedy; even the victors don't truly emerge successful. It represents what I consider to be Whishaw's best performance. His build and complexion—often emphasized by his consistently wearing white—project an air of vulnerability and political weakness that fosters empathy as those around him close in without his full awareness. The narrative is strengthened by the use of separate time periods, culminating in a resolution that feels thorough and complete. It’s fundamentally about political maneuvering and oaths disregarded, revealing that attaining the crown isn't always what it appears to be. The visual design is superb, and the fluid direction gives each of these often unpleasant people their chance to shine.

Source on TMDB