The History Boys (2006) — DVD
Set in 1980s Sheffield, England, The History Boys follows eight bright, outspoken schoolboys preparing for the entrance examinations to Oxford and Cambridge. Their unconventional English teacher Hector encourages curiosity, poetry, and a love of learning, while a new instructor, Irwin, pushes the boys toward polished exam technique and provocative arguments. As the students grapple with ambition, friendship, identity, and growing up, competing ideas about education lead to funny, poignant, and thought-provoking moments.
Cast & Filmmakers
Starring: Richard Griffiths (Hector), Frances de la Tour (Mrs. Lintott), Stephen Campbell Moore (Irwin), Clive Merrison (Headmaster), Dominic Cooper (Dakin), James Corden (Timms), Russell Tovey (Rudge), and Samuel Barnett (Posner).
Director: Nicholas Hytner.
Writer: Alan Bennett, adapting his stage play.
Release year: 2006.
Genre: Comedy / Drama.
Rating: R.
Hollywood & Theater Connections & Trivia
- Stage origins: The film adapts Alan Bennett's acclaimed play, which premiered at London's National Theatre in 2004.
- Original cast: Many principal performers reprised their stage roles for the movie, preserving the ensemble's chemistry.
- Director's connection: Nicholas Hytner directed both the original National Theatre production and the film adaptation.
- Tony Award success: The Broadway production won the 2006 Tony Award for Best Play.
- Future familiar faces: The ensemble includes James Corden, Dominic Cooper, and Russell Tovey, who went on to further film and television success.
DVD Details
Format: DVD.
UPC supplied: 024543425236.
Bonus features, inserts, and disc presentation depend on the pictured edition.
Condition: New DVD. Packaging and any included materials are those of the pictured edition.