William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet

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Lucifer M I was about 6-7 yrs old when this film was released and boy do I still remember, quite vividly, the hype surrounding this film at the time. My aunts, mom and basically every female in my family were going nuts over this film. Luckily I grew up with cinephiles and lovers of art, so at an early age I was already watching this while others around my age were watching Pokemon or DBZ. It left such an impression on me. The 90s vibe was in full display in this film! I loved it back then and when I revisited it when I was older (around 16-17) my views did not change whatsoever. While some of it hasn’t aged well, most of it is still a beautiful piece of cinema. Great performances, gorgeous, frenetic editing and cinematography, the blend of modernism with old Shakespearean language; all wrapped up and dipped in an acid wash that makes you wonder if Tony Scott was inspired by Baz during his Man on Fire/Domino era. This film is definitely a cultural icon for those that grew up/lived through the 90s for sure! Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 12/17/24 Full Review Modibo T Basic Information Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet is a dynamic and eccentric reimagining of Shakespeare's timeless tragedy. Running 120 minutes, this film, available on Hulu and Amazon Prime, sets the iconic story against the vibrant, neon-lit streets of Verona Beach. Luhrmann’s fusion of Shakespearean dialogue with a modern, energetic world brings a fresh perspective to the tale of star-crossed lovers. The Acting Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes deliver captivating performances as Romeo and Juliet. DiCaprio captures Romeo's passionate idealism and emotional range, particularly during pivotal moments like the balcony scene and Mercutio's death. Danes presents Juliet with depth and inner strength, especially in moments of defiance and grief. Together, their chemistry elevates the tragic love story. Harold Perrineau’s portrayal of Mercutio is flamboyant and electrifying, providing the film with much-needed energy, while John Leguizamo's performance as Tybalt, though memorable, occasionally crosses into over-the-top territory. The Direction Baz Luhrmann’s bold, theatrical direction amplifies the emotional core of the story. His maximalist style, highlighted in scenes like the opening gas station brawl, immerses the audience in the chaos of Verona Beach. While the rapid pace may be overwhelming for some, the film balances frenetic energy with moments of dreamy, romantic imagery. Though it occasionally feels more like a music video than a traditional film, Luhrmann’s vision modernizes Shakespeare without losing the emotional depth of the play. The Design Catherine Martin's production design is one of the film’s standout elements, blending modern aesthetics with Shakespearean tradition. The stark contrast between the opulent Capulet mansion and the gritty streets of Verona Beach emphasizes the conflict between private desires and public turmoil. The costumes are equally significant, symbolizing the characters’ personalities and inner turmoil. Tybalt’s matador-inspired outfit and Juliet’s angel costume are particularly striking. The soundtrack, featuring artists like Radiohead, The Cardigans, and Garbage, perfectly complements the emotional tone of the film, bridging the gap between the Elizabethan text and the modern setting. My Overall Reaction Romeo + Juliet is a bold and visionary adaptation that pushes the boundaries of what a Shakespearean film can be. While some of the stylistic choices may be jarring to some, the emotional depth of the performances and the creative ambition of the film shine through. DiCaprio, Danes, and Perrineau's performances are unforgettable, and the film’s lavish production, along with its stunning soundtrack, immerses you in a unique world. Though loud and chaotic at times, it is ultimately beautiful, moving, and an unforgettable reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic tale. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 12/14/24 Full Review Kali A I watched this movie in my 9th grade year in highschool. I feel sleep watching it. I remember some of it. Is so boring. And when I try watching it again. The first scene I saw both me and my mom just stop watching it. It so stupid. Rated 0.5/5 Stars •  Rated 0.5 out of 5 stars 12/20/24 Full Review Fabrícia F Comovente e um clássico cult de uma geração. É um romance que vale a pena conferir sob a ótica de brigas de gangues e o ódio entre duas famílias que se odeiam mas que nem imaginam que um jovem casal está disposto a ignorar toda essa guerra por amor, ainda que isso signifique morrer um pelo outro. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 09/22/24 Full Review Kemp G I get that it’s the whole point but the dialogue is hard to understand and does not feel natural so it is hard to take anything they say seriously. The strange dialogue especially does not fit the over stylized 90’s vibe the movie is going for. Leo especially has some of the corniest line deliveries in the entire thing. If you’re here for the aesthetic alone then give it a watch but the bad story,dialogue and acting are not good at all. Rated 1.5/5 Stars •  Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars 12/20/24 Full Review Audience Member Not the best but pretty solid adaptation Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 08/27/24 Full Review Read all reviews

William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet

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