Product: Romeo and Juliet [Region 2] (1968)
Rating: 5.0
Vibrant Rendering of Shakespeare Play
Franco Zeffirelli's adaptation of "Romeo and Juliet" is a rare thing. It is vibrant and full of life even if the story does concern two star-crossed lovers. He made all the correct choices here. By casting actual teenagers in the title roles Zeffirelli brought energy to the Bard's words. The art direction, the costumes, cinematography, and Nino Rota's classic score are other elements that enhance this work. As stated previously, Olivia Hussey, Leonard Whiting, and Michael York as Tybalt give energetic and effervescent work. It's a shame that Whiting and Hussey didn't have more substantial careers after this film. When you mention Shakespeare to most people it's usually greeted with a hesitancy because the language is considered a chore to get through. This may not be the greatest screen adaptation of a Shakespeare work, however, for a neophyte this is an excellent starting point.