Josh O'Connor's 'Golden Boy' Stage Run Hits Cinemas Nov. 5

Josh O'Connor plays Joe Bonaparte in Clifford Odets' 'Golden Boy,' a role that sees the character trade a career in music for professional boxing. The production, directed by Sam Yates, is set for a global cinema release on Nov. 5 through National Theatre Live. The performance was recorded at London's Almeida Theatre, which hosted the show to sold-out houses.

The character is described in the official synopsis as a gifted young violinist. His path changes when he encounters a chance at fame and fortune. The narrative follows his struggle to determine what he is willing to sacrifice to find his place in a world that demands he choose a side. The story centers on his transition into the brutal environment of professional boxing.

A new first-look clip reveals a specific sequence from the live performance. In the footage, O'Connor embraces an earlier version of himself who is playing the violin. His face is covered in blood from a boxing injury. The clip captures the tension between his musical past and his current physical state.

The production features a live string quartet performing on stage. The cast includes Hayley Squires and Daniel Mays alongside O'Connor. This marked O'Connor's first return to the London stage in five years. During that time, he won an Emmy for his role as King Charles in Netflix's 'The Crown.' He also appeared in films such as 'La Chimera,' 'Challengers,' 'Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man,' and 'Disclosure Day.'

Tickets for the cinema screenings are currently available for purchase. The National Theatre Live website lists the release date as Nov. 5 for audiences around the world. The film captures the live stage environment, including the acoustic elements of the string quartet and the physical presence of the actors.