The Merchant of Venice
10 February 1974, ITV
16 March, 1974, ABC 
Role: Bassanio

This is a video reproduction of Jonathan Miller's acclaimed National Theatre production that starred Laurence Olivier (Shylock), Joan Plowright (Portia) and Jeremy Brett (Bassanio) and preserved Olivier's final stage Shakespeare role. -- BFI ScreenOnline

Widely regarded as the most convincing screen adaptation of The Merchant of Venice to date, this production was sourced from Jonathan Miller's acclaimed 1970 National Theatre staging. Aside from its artistic merit, it's also a valuable historical record, preserving Laurence Olivier's farewell to stage Shakespeare. ... Miller has updated the action to the late 19th century. ... Joan Plowright is a splendidly imperious Portia, slightly older than many, but this has the effect of stressing the length of time she's had to wait for a husband. ... She deliberately prods Bassanio (Jeremy Brett) in the right direction, with the help of a gloriously over-the-top vocal duet. -- BFI ScreenOnline

I liked Jeremy Brett as Bassanio. He has energy. A rare moment of inspiration in this production occurs after Shylock has been publicly humiliated and forced to convert to Christianity. Bassanio looks positively nauseous. He is just human enough to find the trial that strips Shylock of his livelihood and Jewish faith a travesty. Interesting choice and very effective. -- Review from Bardolatry.com

The scene where Portia pledges herself to Bassanio is tenderly acted by JB and Joan Plowright. -- The Brettish Empire

IMDb page // Wikipedia page about the Shakespeare play

Complete text of the play // Plot summary, info about the National Theatre production

VHS available: Amazon U.S. // Amazon U.K.