This is the film adaption of William Shakespear's, "Romeo and Juliet," by Baz Luhrman. The film takes place in the modern era, but the actors speak in verse, just like in the original version. The film follows the story of Romeo, who falls in love with Juliet. Unfortunately, she is a member of a rival house.
Although I appreciate how the film tries to replicate the language of the original version, it falls short in terms of being believable. While talking in verse seems like a good artistic choice, it ends of leaving the characters seeming dry and scripted. While I like the director of photography's choice of color tone, the film troubles me when there are random speed ramps when panning the camera. This choice almost makes the film seem comedic, and like a Disney movie. On the brighter side, there are many good things that I like about this movie. I like how the film uses almost angelic color tones when Romeo is talking, but uses harsh and striking blues when a villain is talking. It's interesting how the film uses the television as vehicle for bringing news and information to the masses in the movie.
In conclusion, there are many negatives to this film, but there are also some positives. The film isn't perfect, but I like how Baz Luhrman managed to reinvent such an old and well known text. Out of all the movies I've ever seen, this is one of the more off beat ones. (2001 Space Odyssey and The Tree of Life) The cinematography was very unique, and so was the film over all. The acting wasn't terrific, but the superb directing definitely made up for that. I'd give the film a 7/10
