this version of Kent was the first one where I had the impression he liked Lear as a person (as opposed to being loyal to him as his King), though obviously he's furious at him in the opening scene with Cordelia.

Good – I’ve always thought one of Kent’s functions in the play is to indicate to the audience that Lear, regardless of how awful he is in the first half, must have had some admirable qualities at one time, if this man is willing to go that far above and beyond the call of duty for him.

There's a surprising amount of forehead pressing against each other and cheek touching between Carter and Hopkins throughout the film.

Well, that certainly sweetens the deal for me.