Romeo and Juliet (1968)

Short description

Romeo and Juliet (1968) is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed by generations of moviegoers. The story of two star-crossed lovers from feuding families has been told many times, but this version directed by Franco Zeffirelli stands out as one of the best.

The casting is perfect, with Leonard Whiting and Olivia Hussey as the young lovers. They bring a youthful energy to their roles that captures the innocence and passion of first love. The supporting cast is also excellent, with John McEnery as Romeo's friend Mercutio, Milo O'Shea as Friar Laurence, and Michael York as Tybalt.

The cinematography is stunning, with sweeping shots of Verona and its surrounding countryside. The costumes are also beautiful, capturing the opulence of Renaissance Italy. The score by Nino Rota adds to the atmosphere, creating an emotional backdrop for the story.

The script is faithful to Shakespeare's original play while still making it accessible to modern audiences. Zeffirelli's direction brings out all the drama and tragedy of the story without being overly melodramatic or sentimental. He also manages to capture some of the humor in Shakespeare's dialogue without detracting from the seriousness of the plot.

Overall, Romeo and Juliet (1968) is an excellent adaptation that captures all the beauty and tragedy of Shakespeare's classic play. It's a must-see for any fan of classic cinema or literature, and it will remain a timeless classic for years to come.

Back ENCYCLOPEDIA