Twelfth Night or What You Will

film by Nunn [1996]

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June 17, 2026

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The 1996 film Twelfth Night or What You Will was directed by Trevor Nunn, a prominent English theatre director known for his innovative stagings of Shakespeare. This film is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's comedy, written around 1600-1602.

The play centers on twins, Viola and Sebastian, who are separated by a shipwreck. Viola disguises herself as a boy named Cesario and enters the service of Duke Orsino. Mistaken identities and unrequited love ensue when Olivia falls for Cesario, while Viola loves Orsino. A subplot involves a prank played on the pompous Malvolio. The play explores themes of embracing life's joys before they pass. Nunn's filmography also includes Lady Jane and Red Joan.12

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Trevor Nunn
…movies, including Lady Jane (1986), Twelfth Night or What You Will (1996), and Red Joan (2018). In 2002 he was made Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in recognition of his services to theatre.
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…movies, including Lady Jane (1986), Twelfth Night or What You Will (1996), and Red Joan (2018). In 2002 he was made Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in recognition of his services to theatre.
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Ben Kingsley
Impactful roles: Schindler’s List and Sexy Beast
…a film adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.
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…a film adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.
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