Henry IV, Part 2 (S01E03)

I quite understand why both parts of Henry IV are so often performed as a single shortened play, because why have two very good parts when you can have one phenomenal one, right? In any case, as the action somewhat stagnates in part two, the development of the characters culminates (commensurate with the acting performances). The exception is Tom Hiddleston, who "only" jumps from the mode of charismatic dandy to the mode of uncompromising charismatic statesman and nothing in between, even though the material gives him enough space to do so. But do not be mistaken, in both of these modes he is insurmountable. (21.05.2013)