Watch The Taming of the Shrew

The Taming of the Shrew is a classic romantic comedy film from 1967, starring the legendary Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton in the lead roles. The film is based on the play of the same name by William Shakespeare, and is directed by Franco Zeffirelli. The story begins with an aristocratic man named Baptista Minola (Cyril Cusack) who has two daughters, Katherina (Elizabeth Taylor) and Bianca (Natasha Pyne). Katherina is known for her sharp tongue and abrasive personality, which has earned her a reputation as an uncontrollable shrew. Bianca, on the other hand, is sweet and gentle, and has many suitors vying for her hand in marriage. However, Baptista has declared that Bianca cannot marry until Katherina is wed, leaving Bianca's suitors in a bind.

Enter Petruchio (Richard Burton), a brash and confident man who arrives in Padua seeking a wealthy wife. Petruchio takes up the challenge of taming Katherina, confident in his ability to do so. Despite Katherina's initial resistance, Petruchio persists, using a combination of wit, charm, and even cruelty to break her stubborn will. Eventually, Katherina submits to Petruchio's will, and the two fall in love.

The film is an excellent adaptation of Shakespeare's play, and features wonderful performances by the entire cast. Elizabeth Taylor is particularly impressive as Katherina, bringing depth and complexity to a character that is often played as a one-dimensional shrew. Richard Burton's Petruchio is both charming and manipulative, making for a fascinating on-screen pairing with Taylor.

The film's real strength lies in its witty and engaging dialogue. Shakespeare's language can be difficult for modern audiences to understand, but the talented cast and direction make it accessible and entertaining. The movie also boasts beautiful costume and set design, transporting viewers back to the Renaissance era in which it is set.

One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the famous wedding feast, where Petruchio tests Katherina's obedience by denying her food and claiming that the food is too cold, too hot, too dry, or too moist. Katherina plays along with the game, and eventually convinces Petruchio that she will do his bidding in all things. The scene is both humorous and poignant, showcasing the growing bond between the two characters.

Overall, The Taming of the Shrew is an excellent film that beautifully captures the wit, humor, and romance of Shakespeare's play. It is a must-see for fans of classic cinema and lovers of Shakespearean theater alike.

The Taming of the Shrew is a 1967 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.