3-1: O'Connor's Boxing Drama Hits Cinemas Nov. 5

Audiences worldwide will see a new cinematic release starting Nov. 5, featuring a filmed version of a London stage production. The film captures a live performance that recently sold out at the Almeida Theatre. This marks the first time the play, originally written by Clifford Odets, has been recorded for a global screen release.

The production was directed by Sam Yates and centers on the character Joe Bonaparte. The official synopsis describes him as a talented violinist who leaves music for professional boxing to chase fame and fortune. The story forces him to decide what he is willing to sacrifice in a world that demands he pick a side.

Josh O'Connor stars in the lead role. The cast also includes Hayley Squires and Daniel Mays. A live string quartet performs during the show. The recording was captured during a live performance at the Almeida Theatre. Tickets for the cinema release are currently available for purchase through the National Theatre Live website.

This performance marks O'Connor's first return to the London stage in five years. During that time, he gained international recognition. He won an Emmy for his role as King Charles in the Netflix series The Crown. He has also received praise for his work in the films La Chimera, Challengers, Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man, and Disclosure Day.

National Theatre Live released an exclusive clip from the production. The footage shows O'Connor as his character confronts a previous version of himself. In the scene, he embraces an earlier self who is playing the violin while his face bleeds from a boxing injury. The clip highlights the character's internal conflict between his musical past and his current life in the ring.