Macbeth Movie Vs Play Analysis

As the play of Macbeth is revisited to be viewed by the world again, a Scottish tyrant betrays his friends for power while a 20th century dystopian leader slowly crumbles into insanity. But, the two men are one and the same. Created for two different audiences, the 2015 film adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the 2010 PBS TV play adaptation surprisingly bear several similarities and differences. Appealing to a more general audience, the film adaptation holds true to the original play in story, dialogue, and setting. Utilizing astounding settings and other historically accurate elements, the 2015 film starring Michael Fassbender allows Macbeth to flow as a real and thrilling story rather than an old and distant play, as the general public may have thought about the original work. Conversely, the play adaptation was presented as more theatrical and only kept the same dialogue

Through its historical settings it captivates the audience more than the play, which is understandable due to the play having a different goal. Slightly, the film boasts better characterization than the play, albeit only because its approach is more natural, which appeals to today’s audience more. But, the play is superior in tone due to its theatrical nature, When comparing the two adaptations of Macbeth, one must realize that the two have different audiences and goals. For example, the setting plays a significant role in both adaptations and appears to be more prominent in the film, but this is due to the fact that the play is placing more emphasis on the actors rather than the setting. Similarly, the film is often nuanced while the play is theatrical, with the latter frequently being outlandish to most audiences because the approach is not aimed at them. All in all, the film proves to be superior to the play, but the play has aspects such as its tone that should not be