Watch The Tragedy of Macbeth

The Tragedy of Macbeth is a 2021 movie directed by Joel Coen and starring Denzel Washington as Macbeth, Frances McDormand as Lady Macbeth, and Alex Hassell as Ross. This film is based on the classic play by William Shakespeare and is a psychological drama that explores the themes of ambition, guilt, and the danger of blindly following prophecies.

The movie opens with the three witches on a foggy heath, their dark prophecy setting the tone for what is to come. Macbeth, a Scottish general, and his loyal friend Banquo come across the witches while returning from a victorious battle. The witches prophesize that Macbeth will become king, and Banquo's descendants will rule, sparking Macbeth's ambition to the point of obsession. Lady Macbeth, a formidable and manipulative woman, spurs him on, leading Macbeth on a bloody, murderous path to power.

This movie is shot almost entirely in black and white, giving a stark and eerie atmosphere to the already intense subject matter. The sets and costumes are spartan, allowing the audience to focus on the actors' performances. Washington's Macbeth is brooding and tortured, haunted by guilt and paranoia as he descends into madness. McDormand's Lady Macbeth is the driving force behind their actions, calculating and ruthless, but struggling to maintain her sanity. Hassell's Ross, a minor character in the original play, is given more screen time, providing a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people affected by the violence and turmoil caused by the Macbeths.

The pacing of this film is slow and deliberate, giving the audience time to reflect on the characters' motivations and choices. There are moments of intense violence and bloodshed, but these are contrasted by quieter scenes of introspection and doubt. The movie's score, composed by Carter Burwell, is haunting and unsettling, heightening the tension and unease of the audience.

Overall, The Tragedy of Macbeth is a masterful adaptation of Shakespeare's play, with strong performances by Washington, McDormand, and Hassell. Coen's direction brings a fresh perspective to the story, emphasizing the psychological trauma and desperation that drive the Macbeths to their tragic ends. This movie is a must-watch for those who appreciate intense drama, powerful acting, and complex characters.

Watch The Tragedy of Macbeth Online.

The Tragedy of Macbeth is a 2021 drama. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 87.