Romeo + Juliet by Director, Baz Luhrman, is one of the countless adaptations of the most renowned romantic tragedies that is loved by many. I, for one, have never liked the tale of two star crossed lovers, nor have I cared for Shakesphere’s other works. I also have a great dislike for the star Leonardo Dicaprio; I find most of his performances subpar (at best). So when it came to watching and reviewing one of the most iconic Romeo and Juliet films, I was going in with a very biased view. But I have to say I was overall pleasantly surprised by this movie and have more to say than I originally thought. So snuggle up with your Valentine for this riveting review, and as always spoilers ahead.
There are many interesting aspects to the 1996 film Romeo + Juliet. After it’s theatrical release, it was rereleased in the DVD trilogy pack titled, “The Red Curtain Trilogy.” The DVD set included three movies directed by Baz Luhrman including: Strictly ballroom, Romeo + Juliet, and Moulin Rouge. Though the movies did not follow the typical trilogy structure with one overarching plot split between three movies, Baz Luhrman categorized these by three theater motifs: poetry in the first (Strictly Ballroom), language in the second (Romeo + Juliet), and song for third (Moulin Rouge). I find this an absolutely fascinating way to sell these three movies, yes this was certainly a ploy to sell more copies of these beloved movie but the idea that movies can still be considered a trilogy when connected themes, directors, motifs, or general aesthetics is engaging and I would honestly love to see it be done more.
Another fascinating characteristic of this film is how it was adapted. Normally when William Shakespeare’s plays are adapted into film, it is in one of two ways. Either it will keep the old English language and delve into the Tudor era of William Shakespeare’s time, Hamlet (1996), Henry V (1989), or Macbeth (2015) are a few examples of this. Other films completely separate the play from its original roots, taking the plot and ideas of the plays and transforming them into a modern setting such as Gnomeo and Juliet or My Private Idaho (one of those being significantly better and more impactful than the other). Romeo + Juliet completely breaks both of these typical structures by keeping all dialogue contained to the original dialogue of the play, while being set on sunny Verona beaches and suburbs. This not only makes this adaptation of Romeo and Juliet stand out amongst the sea of modern recreations, but it also makes the film extremely engaging. The contrast between the bustling modern city mixed with the Old English language of Shakespeare time makes for some beautiful scenes that I found myself enjoying. I feel as though the actors also did a very good job at modernizing the Old English, not through actually changing the words, but with tone and delivery. Mercutio, Romeo’s best friend, is an amazing example of this.
I find that many Romeo and Juliet recreations fall flat when it comes to chemistry between all the characters, but especially the two tragic lovers. With many of the Romeo and Juliet film adaptations I’ve seen, the actors don’t capture the rush of teenage love and heartache that is conveyed through William Shakespeare’s original piece. That is certainly not the case with Luhrman’s adaptation, the child-like love between Juliet and Romeo is natural and absolutely heartwarming to watch unfold. In addition, the relationships the two protagonists hold with others is just as special. I found myself really loving the motherly role that the Nurse took on for Juliet, and how Juliet clearly cared for her in the same way. The same goes for Romeo’s relationship with Friar Laurence. Dicaprio portrayed Romeo’s more boyish behaviors (such as sliding down stair railings, stumbling, and overall foolish actions) when in the presence of Friar Laurence specifically. This truly shows a close bond between the two that enhances them as characters.
I can admit when I’m wrong, and I can certainly say my ideas going into this film were wrong. Although slow at times I have to say I found myself enjoying this movie, from the actors’ performances to the aesthetics of each shot, I was intrigued for the majority of my watch. I give this movie a 3.5/5 and highly recommend it for the Valentine’s Day season.
