Review of Romeo and Juliet (1968) by Knox M — 16 Feb 2018

It's so strange that after all these years, Romeo and Juliet has lost popularity with the mainstream. When first released it was acclaimed as a masterpiece, but now the majority of moviegoers dismiss it for its authentically Shakespearean dialogue and seemingly corny, lovey-dovey romance.

For many people, it's way over their heads. Personally, I feel it is the definitive way to see Shakespeare's story told as it was written. Yes, it's a bit cliche. That's to be expected.

For a film that shaped to modern drama and pioneered 99% of romantic plot devices it's hard to avoid. But where this films shines is in Zeffirelli's clear understanding of Shakespeare's intentions.

Shaekspearewas trying to entertain, excite, humor, and arouse his audience in a mischievous kind of way which is what allowed his success. In this version, Zeffirelli is essentially taking the world that Shakespeare created and doing with it what could't be shown on the stage.