Brilliant. Baz Lurman is a genius.

Rating: Null/10 (1 September 2002)

This is a brilliant masterpiece, with a woven tapestry of music and poetry. Baz Lurman has shown Shakespeare's greatest tragedy in one it's most beautiful forms. Claire Danes and Leonardo Dicaprio give one of the best ever performances of their careers, displaying the true passion and intensity of the piece. Danes as Juliet Capulet, makes her so loveable and gentle yet passionate and intellectual. Dicaprio as Romeo Montague gives a truly remarkable performance with talent well beyond his years.
Lurman captures the true essence of the play. He keeps almost to the exact dialogue catting parts where he sees fit. It flows well with not to many long sonnets, which drag on so long, that you start to question your sanity. The film progresses well and is understandable with the dialogue being clearly spoken. The score is a true credit with the music being a huge credit to the feel and intensity of the movie. Especially in the scenes in the church with the choir which a beautifully sung and just add another dimension. I love the water. The fish tank scene, Juliet's opening scene in the bath, Romeo's cure to the love drug, the pool scenes at the Capulet's Mansion, and many more including getting the actors wet as often as possible, using rain ect. The transformation from an Elizabethan period to the today was easily believable. With replacing Fair Verona with Verona Beach and Family brawling with Gang War. The introduction of drag queens and love drugs makes for dome fun to be had. Truly a remarkable film which has to be seen to be believed.