Product: Romeo and Juliet [Region 2] (1968)
Rating: 5.0
Artistry that will touch your heart
I do not use the term "Masterpiece" lightly. So when I attach that title to Franco Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet please believe that it is heartfelt. I first saw this film upon it's release in 1968. I was 15. Shakespearian productions held little interest for me. The language was strange and from what I'd seen the acting seemed stiff. But after seeing the trailer I was intrigued. Perhaps it was the youthful players or the exciting action. For whatever reason I anticipated Rome & Juliet's release. I even found a paperback edition of the complete works of the Shakespeare and read the play, struggling to understand Elizabethan English but I finally succeeded. When the day of the film premiered in my town I eagerly attended. During the following two and a third hours I felt such emotion radiating from the audience and myself that I sat captivated. The costumes, beautiful soundtrack and sets made me feel as if I was haunting Verona's streets and allies. As the film ended sniffles and sobs accompanied the credits. Most left before the 2nd feature began. I sat, not wanting to exit into the real world until my cheeks dried. When I finally walked into the Sun I returned much richer for the experience. Romeo & Juliet led me to timeless classics and gave me an escape from the realities of 1968. So impressed was I that English and Elizabethan Literature became my major two years later when I entered College. Even today, four decades from that tumultuous time I watch this Masterpiece with moist eyes, my breath falters and if I try to speak my voice catches. "Because never has there been a tale of such woe as that of Juliet and her Romeo." Thank you Master Shakespeare and Sr Zeffirelli. Your artistry touched my heart.