Shakespeare Encapsulated Beautifully

Rating: 8/10 (4 April 2010)

Who could have imagined Shakespeare encapsulated better. This is Shakespeare modernised almost perfectly. A wonderful credit to writers Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard, who have used their imaginations to recreate the time and circumstances in which the great bard may have been inspired to write "Romeo and Juliet".
Stephen Warbeck's musical theme is enchanting and beautiful. The artful, creative sets are captured well by Richard Greatrex. Director John Madden allows the whole thing to flow smoothly.
Oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow is completely charming and totally convincing as Will's inspiration. Joseph Fiennes is persuasive too as the great poet suffering from writer's block. A wonderful support cast back these two up, including the marvellously funny Geoffrey Rush and the brilliantly talented Dame Judi Dench - strong as her royal highness, Queen Elizabeth.
Monday, March 29, 1999 - Knox District Centre
Wonderfully scripted, delightfully acted comedy-romance about the way in which William Shakespeare may have been inspired to write "Romeo and Juliet". The success of this film is all in the writing, or almost all, as Tom Stoppard and Marc Norman have turned the love of Shakespeare and his language into a modern day tragic love story.
Credit also to the amazing Gwyneth Paltrow, Joseph Fiennes, Geoffrey Rush, Colin Firth, Dame Judi Dench and the rest of the marvellous cast. John Madden directs carefully yet with enough flair to keep this feast lively, while his team of costume designers and art directors dazzle us with their creations.
Stephen Warbeck's rich, inspirational score is the cream on the cake.
Saturday, January 22, 2000 - Video