In short, this is so busy a film, a film so determined to stimulate both eye and ear, that the story of the star-crossed lovers often gets lost in melee. Mercifully, Luhrmann stops short of Johnny Mercutio and Jose Tybalt. Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes, quite simply the finest actors of their generation, have the title roles. Both bring the conviction and urgency of their youth to the work. DiCaprio's at a slight disadvantage here because his character, as written to reflect life's general truth, is far less mature than hers.
Girls just grow up faster than boys.
Romeo lacks Juliet's insight into both himself and his situation. He's terribly self-absorbed. DiCaprio gets that right and adds a certain explosive emotionalism to the character. Danes takes every advantage of the opportunity. Her Juliet can be girlish or wise, guileless or secretive.