This short film offers reflections on the impact of performances of 'Othello' by Ira Aldridge, Paul Robeson and Willard White. Professors Carol Chillington Rutter and Tony Howard offer commentary, alongside Adrian Lester who discusses playing Ira Aldridge in 'Red Velvet'.

Othello, newly married to Desdemona who is half his age, is appointed leader of a military operation to defend Cyprus from the Turks. Iago, his ensign, passed over for promotion in favour of young Cassio, persuades Othello that Cassio and Desdemona are having an affair. This is a collection of content around the 2013 National Theatre production of William Shakespeare's play, directed by Nicholas Hytner and starring Adrian Lester and Rory Kinnear. Included in this collection is a background pack, an interview with the director and films looking at specific areas of the play.