Civil War divides the nation. The King is under attack from the rebel York family, who are fighting to place their eldest son, Edward, on the throne. Edward's army advances, led by his youngest brother, Richard, Duke of Gloucester. The film starts with a scene in which a telex is announcing that Richard is marching towards the adversary's headquarters. A tank crashes into a room.
Soldiers storm in.
In contrast, the next scene shows the peaceful life in a palace. The York family celebrates its victory, Edward is King. But this idyllic situation won't last for long. The ambitious Richard, deformed from birth, wants to rule himself. Mc Kellen is sensational in his role as Richard.