Romeo & Juliet

This is a distilled version of the R&J productions we are used to seeing. The raw acting leaves it to be pure in its essence of Shakespeare's work. Amazing! Bravo!

Not entirely a movie, not entirely a stage play, a great mix of both, which gives this version of Romeo and Juliet such uniqueness and freshness. Considering, that the play takes place in the modern world, the characters age shift works perfectly fine. The language is still poetic and old-fashioned, but everything looks natural and alive. Especially I liked the close-ups shots, that makes viewer more involved, as we ourselves are not a distant bystander, but participant of the events. Jessie Buckley and Josh O'Connor give outstanding performances, although these characters were played by many many other actors, they succeed to make their Romeo and Juliet relationship special and memorable. I loved the diversity of the cast and a brief lgbtq+ representation, both of which fully meets modern realities. If you watch it with open heart and mind you will 100% enjoy it. Art is eternal because of the many ways it can be interpreted and remain actual even after a five hundred years. I highly recommend this piece to everyone, who loves Shakespeare, theatre and not afraid of experimentations and interpretations of classics.

The shots in this film embrace not just the essence of a sacred space in the theater but take advantage of the best technology can contribute to intimacy. I couldn't take my eyes off this production for a single moment. It is amazing visually and exceptionally acted by those in every role. Trim and confident in its execution, this production will remain noted and inspirational in many futures to come.

The stars are fantastic. The photography and direction is like a 14 year old kids bad YouTube video. Every scene shot close up, is not dramatic. The continuous close up movement becomes nauseating. A complete waste of the stage. This director and cinematographer may never have attended a stage production. You need to move back and see the actors complete use of the surroundings and stage.

The National Theatre's Romeo & Juliet is a film version of the play shot in a closed theater in lockdown that manages to bring freshness to the classic Shakespeare's love story.

Set in modern-day Italy, the movie draws you in from the start with the settings' minimalism efficiently adding a sense of charm surrounding the cast. There's a scene where the loved ones are surrounded by candlelight in bokeh that exudes romance and beauty. The cast is great. Josh O'Connor and Jessie Buckley bring forward the complete palette of emotions their characters experience. Their chemistry is strong, making it difficult not to be immersed in the story, even if it's already known.

The same story has been told numerous times, but not in this way, and that is why it's worth watching.