The Plays of William Shakespeare, Vol. 9 - The Tempest
Like other volumes in the Plays of William Shakespeare series, this  production ofThe Tempestis stripped of interpretive artistry and  presented with strict fidelity to the play. This can be frustrating, since the  cast is burdened with a textbook approach to authentic presentation, drawing  scant inspiration from moodless lighting and low-budget stage design. What  matters, though, is the play itself, and the best performances, including an  engaging turn by Efram Zimbalist Jr. as Prospero, do adequate justice to  Shakespeare's tale of love and sorcery among island castaways. As Caliban,  William Hootkins provides bluster aplenty, and Duane Black makes a mischievous  Ariel. Other players are less fortunate (as Trinculo, Ron Palillo can't shake  his persona from TV'sWelcome Back, Kotter), and the technical quality of  this series leaves much to be desired. Consider this a suitable introduction,  offering a flavorful taste ofThe Tempestbut not its fullest essence.--Jeff Shannon