Comparing Zefferelli's Production of Romeo and Juliet with Luhrman Production

Comparing Zefferelli's Production of Romeo and Juliet with Luhrman Production

In this essay I am going to write how the production of Romeo

In Franco Zeffirelli's production of Romeo and Juliet, the setting and

language are of a traditional, realistic nature. This is in complete

contrast to Baz Luhrmans production, with the exception of the

language used in both productions.

Zefferelli's production however is far more effective, as he has tried

to keep the film close to the original script and intended exactly how

Shakespeare wrote it. This approach clearly portrays the concept

Shakespeare is trying to demonstrate and it sincerely aids

understanding, as Zefferelli has kept it original. Zefferelli has done

a very good creating the right atmosphere as how lifestyle was like in

Shakespeare's time, this is clearly shown by the Shakespearean

costumes worn in Zefferellis production.

As Zefferelli uses the commonsensical, original approach, he directs

the film using the continuity style of editing; this tells the story,

using a logical pattern or sequence the film simply flows and does not

jump from scene to scene. The objective of Zefferelli I believe was

just to bring Shakespeare's script to life, to help people to

understand the moral and storyline better.

On the other hand I believe Luhrmans objectives were far different to

Zefferellis, I feel Luhrman was somewhat touched by the storyline,

inspired or found it worthwhile, therefore decided to make a

blockbuster, entertaining film from it. This approach is far more

appealing and gives interest to the majority. Luhrman uses the MTV

style of editing, this is completely diff...

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...o find the novelty in the action. Some of the

situations may be familiar; we may be able to anticipate the ending;

and the characters (who should not really be different from everyday

people we meet). Having said this most people today like to see a new

story, a new moral. This is a demand that every director tries to

fulfil. Shakespeare's audience had different expectations, they were

happy to be given stories they recognised.

A final note, I believe Zefferellis production is successful in the

way that it presents the play very accurately and aids understanding

and gives, one historic knowledge of the period. Nevertheless,

Luhrman's production is far more thrilling and great to watch, having

said this; it also follows the story well. The film is very

entertaining to watch and vastly appeals to the modern generation.