Watch William Shakespeare's Drama The Tempest
- 2017
- 2 hr 7 min
William Shakespeare's Drama The Tempest is a movie adaptation of the renowned play by the same name. The production, directed by Julie Taymor, explores themes of power, revenge, love, and forgiveness, which are characteristic of Shakespeare's work. The story follows the sorcerer, Prospero, banished to an isolated island with his daughter, Miranda. There, he uses his magical powers to control the spirits of the island and seeks revenge on his brother, Antonio, who usurped his power and exiled him from Milan. The havoc Prospero unleashes on the island can only be resolved through forgiveness and reconciliation.
The movie opens with a breathtaking shot of the ocean, setting the stage for a tempestuous storm that wrecks a ship carrying Prospero's enemies. Taymor's direction and powerful imagery perfectly convey the sense of chaos and destruction that ensues. As the survivors of the shipwreck reach the island, we are introduced to the variety of fantastical creatures Prospero has summoned to his aid. They fascinate, captivate, and amaze us with their otherworldliness.
At the heart of the story is Prospero's relationship with his daughter, Miranda, acted phenomenally by Felicity Jones. Miranda is blissfully unaware of her father's past and his power, and he wishes to keep it that way until the right moment. The tender moments between the two will melt your heart and display the depth of a father's love.
Prospero's motives and methods are initially unclear as he manipulates his enemies and dictating the course of their lives. However, with the help of his island spirits, Ariel and Caliban, he sets out to teach them the lessons they need to learn. He realizes that the desire for revenge leads only to misery and that the only path forward is through forgiveness and reconciliation.
The ensemble cast is brilliant and brings Shakespeare's words to life with ease. Helen Mirren, as Prospero, commands the screen and gives a passionate and emotive portrayal of the sorcerer. She portrays Prospero's struggle and emotional turmoil with grace and unrelenting force.
Russell Brand's interpretation of the jester Trinculo is refreshing and humorous, providing much-needed comic relief in tense moments. Tom Conti as Gonzalo, and Chris Cooper as Antonio, both give nuanced performances, showcasing the complexity of their characters' motivations.
In addition to the performances, the film's aesthetic is rich and engaging. Taymor's use of color provides a uniqueness to the film and transports the audience to a mystical world of spirits and magic. The eccentric costumes and the makeup add to the grandeur of the overall production.
The Tempest's central message is one of forgiveness, and Taymor's adaptation of it is a timeless masterpiece. The film is not just a retell of Shakespeare's play, but a grand and complex work of art that engages and enthralls its audience. Its stunning imagery and powerful performances stay with viewers long after the credits roll. The Tempest is a must-watch for lovers of Shakespeare, film, and classic literature.
In conclusion, William Shakespeare's Drama The Tempest is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging movie adaptation of Shakespeare's play of the same name. The film's themes of forgiveness and reconciliation are timeless and are conveyed through powerful performances by an ensemble cast, stunning visual imagery, and unique styling. Taymor has breathed new life into The Tempest while remaining true to Shakespeare's original work, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience.