Comparing Film Versions Of Shakespeare's Romeo And Juliet

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The Shakespearian play Romeo and Juliet is one of the most enduring stories of all time. It has remained relevant for over 400 years and it is not surprising that important film makers have chosen to recreate it. Two film makers, Zefferelli and Baz Luhrmann, have made very different versions of the play but both have shown respect for Shakespeare’s storyline. The more conventional approach of the movie made in 1968 by Zefferelli contrasts with the frenetic style of Luhrmann’s movie made in 1996. The following points will demonstrate the differences between Zefferelli and Luhrmann and the relationship their movies had with Shakespeare’s play. Plot - Zefferelli’s version of Romeo and Juliet was designed to keep the original Shakespeare feeling and is held in high regard as a modern interpretation. He follows Shakespeare’s plot relating to the power of the feud between the Montagues and the Capulets. Shakespeare’s play has endured because it is a classic love story and Zefferelli maintains this aspect. Baz Luhrmann’s version maintained Shakespeare’s plot but introduced action scenes and more violence than Shakespeare and Zefferelli. He doesn’t rely on the storyline to carry the film because he found it necessary to incorporate modern violent plots. He supports the quote “These violent delights have violent ends.” …show more content…

Zefferelli’s version is faithful to the original story and the scenery and costumes are realistic. For Baz Luhrmann’s movie to be successful in the modern era, he had to make sure that the theme of love versus hate and youth versus age transcended the 400-year gap. He modernized the themes to suit his audience and ensure the success of the