Exceeding Expectations

Rating: 10/10 (7 May 2013)

Baz Luhrmann exceeded Shakespeare's expectations for Romeo and Juliet with this film. For example, the cast of actors chosen to portray the characters were perfect for the job. This is shown best in scenes where Romeo (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) is in deep bouts of rage. The emotions expressed by the actors add an extra layer of emotion and depth to the script.
Additionally, the movie style in itself is a twist on the popular play. Although the setting is modern, Luhrmann used the exact linguistics from the original play. It is possible that he chose to do that so the true meaning of the script wouldn't be lost. The contrast of Shakespearean English to a modern setting allows for the audience to better understand the language using the interactions with the characters as a guide.
Even the slight changes Luhrmann made to the original script of the play enhanced the movie. In Act 5 of the play, Juliet was supposed to wake up after Romeo drank the poison; however, in the film Juliet wakes up while Romeo is taking the poison. This action made the scene all the more poignant. Any modifications made for the sake of the film enhanced the emotions and interactions present in the tragedy.
All in all, I give two thumbs up.