Mr. Burton is a heartfelt biopic that chronicles the transformative early years of Richard Jenkins, the Welsh miner’s son who would become the legendary Richard Burton. Starring Toby Jones as the titular Philip Burton, the schoolteacher who shaped a raw talent, and Harry Lawtey as the young, fiery Richie Jenkins, the film delves into a lesser-known chapter of Burton’s life with sincerity. While the film takes its time to find its rhythm, its stellar performances and evocative portrayal of 1940s Wales make it a compelling exploration of mentorship, ambition, and identity.
The film opens in the gritty, coal-dusted streets of Port Talbot, 1942, where Richie Jenkins (Lawtey) is a restless teenager caught between a dysfunctional family and the constraints of his working-class world. The initial pacing feels sluggish, as the screenplay by Tom Bullough and Josh Hyams lingers on establishing the bleakness of Richie’s circumstances—his alcoholic father, Dic (Steffan Rhodri), and the cramped home of his sister Cis (Aimee-Ffion Edwards). These early scenes, while atmospheric, can feel repetitive, as if the film is searching for its footing. Yet, this slow burn sets the stage for the emotional weight that follows, grounding the viewer in the stakes of Richie’s journey.
The narrative gains momentum when Philip Burton (Jones), a reserved yet passionate English teacher, recognizes Richie’s potential after assigning him Shakespeare’s Henry V prologue as a punishment. What starts as a disciplinary task ignites a spark in Richie, who declares, “I bloody loved it!” This moment marks the film’s turning point, where the chemistry between Jones and Lawtey begins to shine. Jones imbues Philip with a meticulous sadness, portraying a man whose own theatrical dreams were sidelined by war, now channeled into nurturing a prodigy. Lawtey, meanwhile, captures Richie’s raw energy and vulnerability, his thick Welsh accent gradually transforming under Philip’s guidance.
The acting is undeniably the film’s heartbeat. Toby Jones delivers a masterclass in understated emotion, his Philip Burton a complex figure balancing selflessness with a quiet, unspoken loneliness. Lawtey’s performance is equally remarkable, tracing Richie’s evolution from a gawky schoolboy to a young man on the cusp of stardom. His ability to embody Burton’s emerging charisma is nothing short of captivating. Lesley Manville, as the warm yet underutilized landlady Ma Smith, adds a touch of maternal tenderness.
Despite its slow start, Mr. Burton hits its stride as a character-driven drama that celebrates resilience and artistry. The film’s strength lies in its ability to make you care deeply about its central duo, even if you’re unfamiliar with Burton’s legacy. By the time Richie steps onto the Stratford stage, you feel the weight of his journey—not just as a future star, but as a young man who found his voice through an unlikely mentor. For fans of biopics or those drawn to stories of triumph over adversity, Mr. Burton is a rewarding watch. On a rainy Sunday afternoon, this film is the perfect companion—quietly moving, beautifully acted, and a reminder that greatness is often born from belief.
Mr Burton Arrives at Luna Palace Cinemas Thursday, Aug 14, 2025.
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