The Dresser is Peter Yates's intriguing look behind the scenes of a touring stage company in war-torn England, based on Ronald Harwood's hit Broadway play. Albert Finney stars as Sir, the aging manager and lead actor of the troupe who begins to come undone from the pressure of touring in bombed-out England.

The lines between reality and drama begin to fade, leading Sir into melodramatic ramblings, soothed only by the aid of his devoted dresser, Norman (Tom Courtenay). Norman is part lover, brother, mother, and whipping boy to Sir's mercurial moods, coaxing the egocentric actor through the necessary dressing-room preparations as he readies himself for his 227th performance of King Lear.

Norman is the backstage glue that binds the troupe of eccentric actors together, calming bruised egos and demanding respect for their aging and slightly delusional leader. In true theatrical form, the show must go on, and as bombs fall on England's finest theaters, Sir leads his troupe through another command performance of Shakespeare's tragedy.

This beautifully filmed love letter to the theater is a must for anyone who enjoys fine drama. The film features an outstanding ensemble cast, especially Tom Courtenay, who is a revelation as Norman, giving a deeply inspired and heartfelt performance.

Directed by
Peter Yates

Cast
Albert Finney - Sir
Tom Courtenay - Norman
Edward Fox - Oxenby
Zena Walker - Her Ladyship
Eileen Atkins - Madge
Michael Gough - Frank Carrington
Cathryn Harrison - Irene
Betty Marsden - Violet Manning
Sheila Reid - Lydia Gibson

Production Co.
Goldcrest Film Finance
World Film Services Ltd

Produced by
Peter Yates
Ronald Harwood
John Heyman

Studio
Columbia Pictures

Writer
Ronald Harwood

Music
James Horner