Thank you SO much for this. I'm new to Shakespeare, so having your insight in such an accessible way is getting me so excited to learn more about his work. Subscribed!
Thank YOU so much for your sweet comment! Very excited to have you in this fabulous community 🥰📜 This channel is *exactly* for you. Whether you're new to Shakespeare or are already a longtime devotee, this channel is all about showing how fun Shakespeare can be. So grateful to hear this helped!!! Thanks for making my day 😌🙏✨ See you soon!
I remember Brian Cox's performance as Macbeth and I have always compared everyone to him , that includes Orsen Wells , Sir McKellen , Patrick Stewart , Fassbender and even Mr . Washington, I rate him by far the best , probably because he captured my imagination .Funny thing in the movie V for Vendetta , when V says to Evee"I dare do all to become a man , he who dares more is none ", before V finished that sentence my father said "Oh , that's Macbeth.". I loved Hamlet the animated tales , that scene where he speaks to his father (the ghost ) really blew my mind , the art style , the way they all put in the effort to make it special. I love Shakespeare's plays , truly magnificent.I actually love seeing people talk about Shakespeare the same way I feel about the man , his way with words , puns and how he deals with morose topics and humor.
This isn't Shakespeare it's a modern "woke" take on it I hate using that word but it is what it is. If you want Shakespeare you can't start with stuff like this that is so different and not even close to the source you can't call the Shakespeare. Go get some actual Shakespeare
This was the first video recommended to me this morning as I signed onto UA-cam. I have never seen your content before nor know you as a creator. I wouldn’t say I’m a fan of Shakespeare but I think your joy and excitement in delivering this review I just watched, I think I might have to dive in and have a peek and read his collection of work. It’s clear this is something you’re quite passionate about and I really appreciated you showing the world and strangers like me that level of passion. It feels rare these days - regarding everything. I know that feeling of “omg this is amazing” times, I dunno… a million - it’s exciting, it’s inspiring it makes you want to get up and, I dunno - create! Anyway, after I post this message on your video I will go grab my iPad look for the Shakespeare play - and read it. Yes, I know what I’m getting myself into, haha. I’ll promise to carry on even if I become utterly confused or slightly bored. But as an artist of sorts myself, seeing a fellow artist explode with this sort of excitement - it’s motivated me to give it a whirl! Thank you for your review and your honesty! ;-). -Michael, new york city
Oh Michael… I cannot TELL you what this means to me ❤️ As artists, we are so ridiculously brave with every creation. I admire your passion as well, which is evident in your words and generosity of spirit. I marvel at your thoughtfulness and am beyond grateful to have inspired someone to dive into Shakespeare. That’s what my channel’s mission is all about. THANK YOU for being a beautiful human and for commenting. You have made my day and have given me every reason to keep going 🙏🙂✨ Glad to have you in our community.
Wonderfully articulated and passionate review that does what good criticism is supposed to do.....it illuminates the artwork itself. I haven't yet seen it (I'm tired of continually adding new streaming services for only one or two things, and then forgetting to cancel them. :-) ), but your video makes me think I'll do that yet again....because I love Macbeth, and actually like the eerie unanswered questions of motivation any good production leaves us with. I think the trailers look wonderful, and I've always liked the Coen Brothers work; so it sounds like a potent combination! From your description, it also sounds like they "borrowed" some strong ideas and images from earlier Macbeth films: Polanski's and Kurzel's, to name two. Interestingly, Kurzel's 2016 film has the same moment that you describe about your own production: it begins with the burial of the Macbeths' baby. (And, like you, I think the loss of that baby is a pivotal motivation for Lady M.) And Polanski's 1971 film has Duncan awaken right before the murder as well. (Kurzel's might have too, come to think of it....) Without seeing it, I think that Denzel is a great choice for Macbeth--you actually can believe his soldierly prowess, which is something I never could quite buy with Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellan or Orson Welles. And, as you appear to confirm, it seemed to me that Frances McDormand would be an unusual choice for the Lady. Her usual acting style of late in her films is just too cold, too distant. And I think both of them, Denzel and Frances, are both a little old for the roles. It would be nice to transfer Marion Cotillard into this film as Lady M, because I thought that she and Michael Fassbender had a great and sexy presence together, in spite of the other substantial flaws of Kurzel's film. Fascinating review, Shelby! Thanks for sharing it, and congratulations on its popularity with viewers!
David, thank you for this eloquent, thoughtful, and sweet response to my review! Yes, I think we’d completely agree per our previous discussions about Macbeth. And I cannot believe that I still haven’t seen Kurzel’s 2016 film. Will certainly do so now, especially per your recommendation! I hear you about not wanting to add channels because you forget to cancel them-SAME for me 😉 So glad my review could serve as enough of a tide over until it’s available on streaming platforms you already have and love. Thank you dearest David for watching and commenting, and for being a part of this video’s climbing success!! 😘❤️
My mind was blown by the idea of opening the play with Lady M mourning the loss of a baby. Grief is a really powerful and interesting way to explain her ambition and complete abandon.
I'm so glad that that image spoke to you Kat! And whether a production chooses to have a choice like that play out onstage or whether it's simply within the actors' backstory, _something_ thorny *must* be present to spurn them on--either as a couple or as individuals. So the question becomes: What deep wound are they acting from that causes such unhinged deeds? 🔥🙂 Thanks so much for watching and commenting. Love blowing minds!
As someone who saw the production Shelby was in, I can say that it brought an accessibility and depth of character I have found missing in many other adaptations. That opening scene informed the performances throughout (not just that of Lady Macbeth) and intensified the tragedy. It was a production I found truly gripping to watch. Even my husband and stepson who aren't very well versed in Shakespeare enjoyed it, and we had a great conversation about the production, Macbeth, and Shakespeare after seeing it.
@@hurricanerae wow….. this is so moving 🥲🙏 Very grateful to you Rae for sharing this. So generous of you. It means the world to hear that my performance was memorable, understandable, and brought something new to the character and play to someone like you who knew it so well. Thank you “a thousand thousand” 💕
Your criticism of the portrayal of Lady Macbeth rings true to me, but surely McDormand's portrayal isn't an isolated accident. Her lack of passion had to be part of the overall vision of the production. And to me, that's the hole in the heart of this beautiful film. In traditional productions, Macbeth's fatal flaw is not ambition, but a lack of will. He is a good and loyal soldier. He puts his whole career into serving his king and has been made Thane of Glamis. He puts one foot in front of the other and does what is expected of him. He is at heart a good man. This is especially striking in a Macbeth of Denzel's age. In this production, a few words from witches and the tepid support of his wife transform Macbeth into a monster of ambition. But this is a man who has lived his whole life in service. It isn't believable to me that there has been a smoldering ambition under the surface for decades. Denzel's transition from faithful soldier to raving megalomaniac is not credible. For the title character - an everyman - to ring true, I think he must be basically good, but too easily led astray by the wiles of the witches and the wife (not coincidentally all female in my estimation). In this conception, there are echoes of Eden and the myth of Pandora. It is women's dissatisfaction with the status quo that inevitably leads to ruin - at least in the Western literary tradition. Shakespeare's audience would have readily accepted Lady MacB as an Eve or Pandora figure. (Or Elsa in Wagner's Lohengrin...the list goes on and on.) Of course today we are trying to free our literature from the conception that women's curiosity and ambition are the source of all evil. These are antiquated patriarchal ideas. But I think they provide the framework that makes the Scottish Play's character arcs make sense.
Gwen what a *stunning* reflection! Thank you so much for watching my review and for commenting with such verve, intelligence, and potent literary context. This is what I adore about Shakespeare’s universal themes. It sparks us to think deeply about not only our present, but where it originated from in the past and what it portends about our future. I wonder too about the spark that lights the flame of Macbeth’s deeds. I never resonate with productions that give all the power to the witches, as if they’re the puppeteers and none of the characters have choice. And I am so intrigued by (and grateful for you bringing up) the Eve/Pandora concept of “women’s dissatisfaction with the status quo leading to ruin.” I completely agree that Shakespeare’s audience would have readily accepted her villainy for that canonical reason. My main challenge therefore to any contemporary adaptation on stage or screen is then to dive *deeper* into the text, because of our society’s ever-opening awareness, and present an alternative to Lady Macbeth’s stamp of villainess or “dissatisfied female.” Have you seen any other Macbeth films or productions that you felt served as more credible per the characters’ objectives or motivations? Thank you for this excellent historically-framed food for thought! So grateful to have you in this community Gwen 🥰🙏 Please consider subscribing as I would LOVE to read your articulate insights and reactions on future videos. Anon ❤️
I have not seen such a production. However, I think I would like to see a Macbeth in which the weird sisters are not presented as witches, but as angels. MacB and the audience accept them as messengers of divine intent. The play then gives us many good points to ponder. Do we sit back and wait for God to open doors, or do we murder the current occupants of our promised thrones to speed things along? (They say the lord helps those who help themselves, no?) And what about those murders? Throughout history, true believers have been called upon to do unspeakable things to support their fervent belief that they are acting according to a divine plan. Could MacB's tortured speeches be wrapped around the idea that he is wrecked by a god who orders him to do evil things to achieve a desirable end? That's a philosophical question that resonates through the centuries, and which we still wrestle with today. It might take some pruning of the text to frame the thane's destruction this way, but surely less than Coen did. We have seen MacB transformed by the previously unsuspected pressure of a lifetime of ambition and by the prodding of a scheming wife. Neither satisfies. What if he were transformed - and destroyed in the transformation - when he is compelled to do evil things to achieve what he devoutly believes God intends?
WOW. That sounds like an AMAZING direction, rife with moral complexity. Like Ian McKellen’s character says in The DaVinci Code: “As long as there has been a God, there has been killing in his name.” Witches as angels… the internal disturbance of trusting Your deity’s orders even if the task is evil… incredible idea. Definitely food for thought going forward. Thank you Gwen!
please tell me you have something on romeo and juliet, i got the role this year and ive been obsessed with it . so happy to find a really amazing channel on shakespeare that isnt just the educational part but just the exciting nerdy bits and movie reviews! yessss love this
Mecca!! I’m so excited to have you in this community 😍🙌 You will be a GORGeous Juliet! Tell me everything you want to know. Here’s a playlist of the R&J I have so far (link below) but let me know your burning questions and I will absolutely make a video answering YOUR specific questions that will benefit LOTS of others as well 🥰 Like… what the heck does this speech mean? Or… how do I look up these old timey words? Or… if Juliet’s only 13, do I play her as a “young kid” or as my own age? Thank you for your sweet words and equally nerdy enthusiasm. Can’t wait to hear how I can help! ❤️ My R&J videos so far: ua-cam.com/play/PLsxWeoGZfy64CRPJRz1Vdgo7SErb83aUp.html
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Im blushinnnng omg thank you! and i watched all of them today lol!! i love your juliet monolouge so much, definitely will think of some questions soon.
Yay!! I almost didn't wanna watch because I was worried about spoilers...I was obviously completely forgetting that along with seeing multiple M*cbeths, I've also been in an adaptation. What could you have possibly spoiled!!! Great work-looking forward to seeing the film.
I haven't seen this film yet, but from your description of the witches from this film, did you see the Patrick Stewart version? The contorting witches in that one looked like the nurses from the horror film Silent Hill. And the Lady M in that version was awesome!
YES the Patrick Stewart version is certainly solid! I’ve seen it, but would love to watch it again now that I’ve played Lady M. But I definitely remember the witches-LOVE the horror film take 😜👏 Thank you so much for watching and commenting!
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Kate Fleetwood. I just looked it up. She shot to the top of my list of favorite Lady M's after watching her in that version (2010)! It looks like it's on Amazon Prime.
Hi! Katherine Hunter is playing Lear again this year at the Globe. I am going on my first overseas trip this may and bought tickets to Much Ado at the globe ( which I am o'er the moon about). Still...if I had known. Oh well. I moving to have a blast for sure.
WOW that will be such a fabulous trip! Yesss I saw that she’s doing Lear and would love to go too, but Much Ado at The Globe will be FAB! Let me know how you like it 😍🙏 Thanks so much for watching and commenting Rick!
Ps will you please review that glorious midsummer nights dream from the 90s? Its one of my favorites I'd love to hear your wonderdul in-depth analysis of that one.
You saying about the reality of the dagger made me think of an interview I read with Kathryn Hunter. She asked Joel Coen if she should be real or imagined by Macbeth. He told her "Both".
Mmmmmmm! What a PERFECT. ANSWER. 🤩🧟♀️ That seems right to me too. Thank you so much for sharing that amazing insight! And for watching and commenting 💖
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Well, that's the most enthusiastic reply I've ever received! You made my day. Btw the interview was on the Guardian website, should be easy enough to find if you fancy reading it.
Hello Shelby, your book collection seems like it's a lot of great reads. I was wondering if you can recommend to me some great books. I love reading inspirational , motivational and also science fiction books.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Jermar! 🥰📚 Yessss let's talk books. Obvi... I have a lot 😅 I love motivational, personal development books as well. So many to choose from, but I'd say the ones that really changed my life are The Untethered Soul, A Return to Love, The Miracle Morning, You Are a Badass, Conversations with God, The Artists Way, and The Underachiever's Manifesto. Hope this helps! Happy reading 🙃
The more I think about Macbeth the more I am amazed with Shakespeare's skill as a story teller, the number one rule of story telling is to never reveal the end/ending , and that's what we see early on, yet we are intrigued to see how Macbeth descends into evil.I hope we can one day get a Hamlet similar to this.
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Thank you.Both my parents studied English Literature , my father memorized most of the plays , my mother would tell me about Hamlet when I was young ,I still remember seeing the animated tales as a young kid , my mind was blown , I was also lucky to visit William Shakespeare's birthplace when I was 10. Once again thank you for the reply.
WOW he MEMORIZED THEM?! 🤩👏👏👏 What a gift. Your parents are fabulous. And I lovvve the Animated Tales too! Watching them again as an adult is quite fascinating. So glad to have you here Ahmed! 😁
Ok, LOVE the review. I didn’t listen to you and I watched the whole thing because I’m not worried about spoilers and I really wanted your opinions even before having my own. 😊 BUT this was so crazy interesting and now I really want to see the things you described and see if and what I agree/disagree with! Definitely do more of these…. Midsummer, Romeo+Juliet with Leo!!! Bahaha
Amazing!!! SO glad you didn’t listen to me because you wanted to listen to MORE of me 😜🙌 Yay! Stoked this is making you even more excited to see it. Thanks for watching and commenting and requesting Baz’s R+J! Good call-eth… 😏 Lots ‘o opinions on that one. Anon Heidi!
Agreed... The Witches Scenes were the Best of all the Adaptations. But Roman Polanski's version in 1971 still is the Best version I have ever seen because it uses the Film Medium to tell the story more than just the Dialogue.
Awesome AnnoyBoyPictures! Adore that version. Would love to watch it again in light of this new film to see how it compares after all of these years. Thank you so much for watching and commenting!
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Polanski's version is still the best. (IMHO) - because it gives more visualization to the story beyond the dialogue, but possesses a very great realism in the actions of the cast. And Jon Finch was just such a brooding charismatic actor and Francesca Annis is so easy on the eyes. That being said, Kurzel's version (2015) with Fassbender and Marion Cotillard was certainly more visually stunning, and explored an important plot point that Shakespeare never delved into, which was the fact that Lady Macbeth was unable to have children. A crucial fact and motivating factor that I thought was not developed enough even in the original play itself. But, the unforgiving flaw in Kurzel's adaptation was all the dialogue was mumbled in hush tones, something not becoming of Shakespearean plays, so it really ruined that film for me. In addition, the witches were not fully fleshed out, and many of the scenes (like where the Thane of Cawdor faced the king for his treachery was quite bland and lacked import and gravitas). He was after all sentenced to death by the king shortly thereafter, so you would have expected a more dramatic and flushed out scene. Compare these both to Orson Welles' adaptation (1948), and you would cringe... I have no idea where he thought Macbeth was supposed to take place... but by the rocky cave sets, and ridiculous outfits and head dresses you certainly would not have assumed 11th Century Scotland.
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare You should definitely do film adaptation reviews if you enjoy doing them. It would be interesting to hear more of your analysis as you are someone who not only loves and deeply understands Shakespeare, but also has an understanding of the possibilities of a film adaption that aren't options for the stage. (It would also be a winner for the youtube algorithm as film analysis is crazy popular.) My first request would be Ian McKellen's 1995 adaptation of Richard III. One of the first film adaptions (using Shakespeare's language) I remember watching. IMO it's gloriously over-the-top, and McKellen's performance cannot be beaten.
Finally watched the film and I’ve maybe never agreed more with a review of anything ever, more than this. Hahaha! From Lady M to the Witches to Mcduff its so spot on!! In answer to your question, I felt the starkness and lighting was BEAUTIFUL as well, and I feel it both added to the language by not taking from it and allowing the audience to experience that, but in some ways was so beautiful and noticeable that I was talking and thinking about that and forgot dialogue was happening. Such a beautiful film overall! Loved Denzel!
Awesome Heidi!! 😍🙌 So glad you loved the film and that my review’s “question to ponder as you watch” was helpful ❤️ Happy to hear you enjoyed the film. I agree completely-that the starkness of the production design both supported and detracted from the text at different times. Thank you for watching and commenting! 🥰🙏 Hazzah to both of us watching more and more Shakespeare films!
Great review of my absolute favorite Shakespeare tragedy !! Overall I thought Denzel did a fine job but he is one of my favorite actors. I thought shooting the movie in black & white really helped to create that 'other worldly' atmosphere !! I have an education & acting background and I've had some experience with combat choreography for stage plays & film. Maybe that's why I really loved Justin Kurzel 's adaptation with Michael Fassbinder & Marion Cotillard !! May I say that I really love the excitement and perspective you give The Bard in your videos !!☺️☺️☺️ Your articulate, attractive, and well spoken. Peace ☮️ to you and have a wonderful week.
Thank you so much for your sweet words and generosity of spirit Pastor Jim! 🥰🙏✨ So nice to have you in this community. And what a great point about the other worldliness! The Witches would have been proud 😁 I adore Denzel too-how he brings a palpable warmth to whatever he does. I really appreciate your compliments, especially me as *articulate* because sometimes I feel like my joy for Shakespeare makes me seem a little crazy ha! Glad to meet you and a hearty WELCOME to Shelby Loves Shakespeare 🥰 Did you see my latest video? Joan of Arc burning at the stake performed hilariously by Mary Poppins 😜☂️🇬🇧☕️🔥 Enjoy! And thanks for commenting!!
Have you seen Macbeth (2015)? For me that is one of the best film adoptation of the play. Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard play the title roles perfectly. Michael's Macbeth has an unnvering intensity to his madness yet the performance is understated and not over the top; he expresses so beautifully with his eyes and you can see a storm of madness and paranoia raging behind the eyes. He is at once commanding yet also under the spell of Lady Macbeth. Let me know what you think of that adoptation.
YES Mani! I think that adaptation is very well done and has some extraordinary moments. When he says “O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife,” I completely believe it-the madness, the heartbreak, his own awareness that he is not himself. I absolutely agree that it’s one of the best, but there are still a few things that don’t strike me as strong enough choices in service to the text. I’m actually rewatching this film now to do a full review of it in an upcoming video because quite a few have asked my thoughts on it 😍 Look out for it and let me know what you agree with and don’t? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thank you for watching and commenting Mani! So glad to have you in this community 😁🙌
*_SPOILER FREE_* beginning! On the fence about seeing it? Enjoy 4 minutes of strategically vague thoughts! And I let you know EXACTLY when to leave before the witches *I MEAN SPOILERS* click in 😉 Watched the whole review? COMMENT with your agree/disagree thoughts BELOW 🥰⬇
Interesting, I personally thought the dagger speech missed the mark with flat delivery. The dagger being the door handle was exceptionally clever, however, even though that cleverness did bring with it textual problems that were glossed over. Macbeth for example says "Come let me clutch thee... I have thee not" without ever actually doing it.
Also interesting, I was struck by your high praise of Denzel Washington's performance while being less impressed with Frances McDormand. Because for me, I was more dismayed by Denzel. Then I heard you played Lady Macbeth whereas I played Macbeth and now I wonder if it's more that we just know what's missing in the roles we ardently studied personally. Anyway, all the rest you said was also my take: Kathryn Hunter is worth the price of admission alone, either here or as Puck or anywhere, and the rest of the cast was perfection.
Thank you so much for this thoughtful comment! Great point about the dagger, and YES how interesting that we were most critical of the parts we’ve previously played. I think you’re right that that has a huge part to play in our analysis and observation of other performances. As actors, it’s our job to become advocates for our characters. It seems we’ve both done a fine job 😌♥️ “Kathryn Hunter is worth the price of admission.” Couldn’t have said it better myself. I hope the recording of her Lear becomes available to stream one day! Thanks so much for watching 🥰🫶
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Ya unfortunately I don’t plan on subscribing to apple’s streaming service. I did recently see it posted on Amazon. But I believe it’s a Uk release so it probably won’t play on my player.🤨
Watched the whole thing before seeing the movie, and now I'm even more excited! Ross is actually my favorite character--poor guy!--and this sounds like nothing I've ever seen, but really, really fun. Can't wait to dig in! (Also, hella geeked for Kathryn Hunter.) Excellent, detailed review overall. Super fun.
So glad Glenn! 🤩🙏 This Ross 2.0 awaits your fandom with baited breath. Thank you for commenting and letting me know that I was able to spark your excitement further ✨ Can’t WAIT to hear what you think of it! Pop back here afterwards and tell me all the things. Hazzah!
Great point Ramon! Mechanical is a perfect word. So then I wonder if she *enjoyed* that world and *that’s* why she wanted to rule it? Because you’re right, she certainly didn’t appear very upset by that oppressive sterile life (“sterile” being a doubly apt word for the art design and her childless circumstance). I just wish I could have understood *why* she wanted to take the throne. Was it because she loved the current world or loathed it? It’s a big temptation for actors to reflect the tone rather than the text, and your point gives a really interesting context to her coldness. Thank you for watching and commenting! SO lovely to have you on this channel 🥰🙌
yeah I'm hoping you watch and/or review the Polanski adaptation. I haven't seen this one (I'll need to watch it) but if this is the most abstract version of macbeth, then IMO polanski's is the most visceral. And as expected, it is absolutely brilliant how it handles the unworldly aspects of the play.
I wish there was more done with the sound design. This could've used a low rumble or just something to create unease, the film felt kinda sonically empty
Marc, what a great point! One of my favorite moments was a tiny sound design effect of having a flapping bird sound when the witch transformed from her Gollum-like state to the caped trio, foreshadowing her ultimate return to the crow form. BUT THEN THE SOUND TOUCHES WERE GONE you’re so right! I agree wholeheartedly that that was another missed opportunity. Well spotted! 🙃 Brutus (another commentor) also mentioned wanting more of that Hitchcock vibe-who was a master of suspense indeed, much helped by Bernard Herrmann’s score and the ever-present tense soundscape. I would have liked more of that too. Perhaps the lack of an underlying sound was what allowed me not to be sucked in properly and why I wouldn’t need to see it again. Thank you so much for watching and sharing your comment Marc! I hope you subscribe 🙏😍 So glad to have you in this community.
For me too, the witches were the best part of the film. I also loved the dissembling Ross, but I question if he was for good- I wonder what he will be telling Fleance after the events are over, because we know Fleance will be king and it seems to me the only way he'll become king is a similar path to Macbeth. I do love Denzel but I found many of his speeches hard to follow and the rate at which the text was coming out too fast and not enough variety. He was truly electric anytime he could match sizable emotion with text- I'd love to see him play it on stage in person. And I agree I absolutely believed him as a soldier! Great review my friend!!
Mmm “dissembling” what a perfect word for him! GREAT point about perhaps seeing the saving of Fleance as a tool for future political opportunity-garnering favor now so that the eventual king will “owe him” later… or at least trust him enough to be the chief advisor to the young monarch. And yesss I agree about Denzel’s sometimes speaking too softly to really honor the text, which is probably why I was so ignited when he clicked into badass soldier mode 😎 THANK YOU for your thoughtful comments Christine! And for watching and liking and nerding out. Hazzah to fellow Shakespeare lovers 🥰🙌
I saw an interesting interpretation of Lady M many years ago at RADA in Stratford. Macbeth was clearly a warrior in his late middle age - still strong and dangerous, but graying and scarred. When Lady M walked out there was a gasp from the audience - she was maybe 20 at most and had an ethereal quality as she floated out, long blonde hair glittering in the light,. After the gasp, the audience went "aha!"- it was no stretch at all that she has huge sway over him - Macbeth would do anything for her. And her choices, then later madness made sense - she was very young and beautiful and was yearning for everything the world could give her! She has an older husband who is gone at war much of the time, but to be a sort of Queen - oh yes she wants it. She would dangle her sexuality before her husband, giving and taking away as needed. But in the end, as the reality of the murders sets in, the blood and horror, the change in Macbeth as the deed was done - reality was so different than the fantasy and it fractured her. Really fascinating take.
W. O. W. This approach makes INCREDIBLE sense 🤯❤️🙌 Thank you very, very much for sharing this LAMusing! And for watching and commenting 🥰 So happy to have you in this community! The idea of floating out is such an engaging image. Many make a similar assumption of Desdemona in Othello-that her ethereal quality melts him and he’ll do anything she likes, which is why he’s so utterly destroyed at the thought of her accused unfaithfulness. Though Desi never consciously manipulates anyone with her “whiles” as Lady M does. Love this direction for Mrs. Mackers. Fascinating is right!
I admired this version of the play, and concurred with most of your comments, especially in respect of Ross, who was a pure Coen character if ever I saw one. Thanks for your passionate review! I liked Frances McDormand a good deal more than you though, although I'd agree that there's a frostiness in the marriage that distances us as an audience. I was actually a big fan of the "unsex me here" speech. I enjoyed that Lady Macbeth had an anguish in her voice; that there was something plaintive yet resolute in the rejection of her femininity. As an older, post-menopausal woman, she is perhaps mourning her child-bearing years, and bitter that they didn't bear fruit. I read this as her simply asking these dark spirits to finish the corruption that age and nature began in her woman's breast. This is a woman who perhaps never recovered from the loss of her child; in this interpretation, the fires of her marriage have waned, and she substitutes pursuit of power for a love that's grown cold. She is both literally and figuratively barren - her ambition is all that remains. I also loved the detail that she seems to have a little dagger earring in this scene!
Matthew this is GORGEOUS. You’re spoiling my poetry-loving heart with this articulate, thoughtful writing! “Something plaintive yet resolute in the rejection of her femininity” mmm such an eloquent way to describe this version’s direction. I think you have identified exactly what Joel Coen and Frances McDormand were going for. I love the idea of her “unsex me” moment being a final straw/drain of whatever remaining femininity resides rather than a full overhaul. Definitely a solid take. So glad to have you and your brilliance in this community 😍📜🙏 Thank you for watching and commenting Matthew. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on future videos!
Shelby I made an earlier post but I was pumped after watching your review for a third time 🙂. I thought Denzel did a good job and as a former soldier myself I can say he was quite believable. I thought Frances M's performance felt really one dimensional !! Marion Cotillard in Justin Kurzel 's adaptation was far more appealing & engaging in my opinion. I have some thoughts on certain scenes & lines from a faith perspective that I wanted to get your feedback on. I'll send those in a few days. Shelby you are awesome, lovely, and your channel is rocking it !!! Keep up the great work- I am stoked !!! 😊😃😉 PEACE ☮️ to you and have a wonderful weekend.
Sounds awesome, can’t wait to hear your thoughts on those scenes and lines! Thanks so much for your enthusiasm about my channel 🥰🙌 Please share it with anyone you think would like it as well!
First off, let me say that I love you. I have attempted to watch every possible play of Macbeth. Living in Cedar City Utah, which has the yearly Shakespeare festival. I am thrilled every time that they put on the play Macbeth. This movie is by far the best "play" I have ever seen or experienced. Catherine's portrayal of the three witches... Hypnotic! Francis' casting of Lady Macbeth was genius, and her portrayal.. .spotless. at first I was a little put off by Denzel Washington in the role of Macbeth but after watching it a dozen times....who could have done it better.
Omg you’re so sweeet 🥰 Hello Bob and WELCOME to this fun Shakespeare community! I’m so glad you enjoyed the film and am super grateful that you commented on my review. AND WE HAVE THE SAME LAST NAME! 😜 ‘Tis fate. Thanks for watching and for your sweet sweet words 😁✨ Looking forward to more and more videos!
Probably won’t watch it then. I don’t really think Shakespeare works in movies. The only time I really enjoyed it was at The Globe in London (and I also went the commoner route and stood which was more engaging but also impossible to fall asleep 😜)
Haha YAS GROUNDLING 😜🚫💤 So glad this video helped you make the decision of whether or not to watch the film Ryan! I’m always stoked when a new Shakespeare movie comes out because my tiny nerddom is suddenly cool for a second and some are finally exposed to this gorgeous poetry for the first time, but I agree that it’s *extremely* hard to do it in both a clear and compelling way. Thanks for watching and commenting!! 🥰
I’m regards to the plot. I came into this film directly after seeing Throne of Blood by Kurosawa and I think that really helped. Even if there were differences. Also I loved the witches in this film
Yesssss Throne of Blood is a masterpiece! 🩸🎬 So glad you enjoyed both, and I really appreciate you watching and commenting on my review. Thank you Jacob! Glad to have you in this community 🙂
one more thing - I think that this production DID take some cures from the Polanski one. It sounds like Ross in particular is modeled after his characterisation there.
For a great Lady Macbeth, I'd recommend Kate Fleetwood in the 2010 film with Patrick Stewart as Macbeth. I'm no expert, but she was frightening, and I thought the murder and the surrounding scenes with her and Stewart were harrowing.
Wait! A Shakespearean tragedy and everybody dies!?!? I enjoyed the 2010 adaptation with Patrick Stewart and I'm looking forward to checking out this one
Loved this film ,saw it yesterday. I thought Frances MacDormand was amazing and a joy to see. The Ross thing I was less happy with since ,while adaptations and interpretations are one thing, this was a bit too far. I am talking particularly about Fleance being still around and Ross riding off with him. Did not spoil the film for me though Maybe it attempts to answer a question long posed by the play .
Spoilers in this comment, you have been warned: If William Shakespeare was made in the style of Alfred Hitchcock. That’s the best way I can describe it. The Twilight Zone analogy was certainly correct. In the play, there is a short scene that explains the Three Witches’ (and their Master’s) intentions, but it is cliché and unnecessary and would have bogged down the film if it had been dramatized. The film works better with the ambiguity. Also, Ross is given more of an active role and his intentions are not always clear. My guess is that he is working for both sides, a double agent, although I think he chooses whichever side has the upper hand and whichever side is to his own immediate benefit. There is one mistake in his storyline. Ross witnesses both Banquo’s murder and Macbeth’s dinner party afterwards. But there is no natural way he could do so, especially not because he spends time searching for Fleance when the other two murderers are already returning to report to Macbeth? How does he find Fleance, leave him with the Old Man, and still beat the first two Murderers back to the dinner party? Unless his horse is Pegasus, I don’t see how.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Brian! Great insights and questions. 👍 I think Twilight Zone is such a cool angle and would love to see it applied to some other Shakespeare plays.
GUSH? I almost nodded watching it. I did NOT like what Coen did with Ross - it changed the weight of the stakes. They should ultimately fall on Macbeth, not be privvy to some behind-the-scenes-interloper. The main "tragedy" of the story lies in Macbeth's character flaws, not determining factors of outside agents like the witches or Ross. When they become too important or the emphasis is too much on the horrific effects in the story it becomes a tale of horror and not the tragic fall of a great warrior. But to each his own! I just don't think what the Coen's produced is what Shakespeare ultimately said with his play. All the same, it's great to see the Shakespeare love! Haha. 👍🏽
Brutus, what an amazing response! Agreed, I LOVE how much Shakespeare sparks debate 😍💥🙌 I’ve been *hoping* someone would disagree with me ha! I definitely hear you about Ross. I hate when productions decide that the witches are controlling everything because, like you said, it takes away the Macbeths’ agency. And I think I was so taken by the wildly different direction on Ross (another commenter called him “dissembling” which I loved) that I automatically was like YESSSS! I still maintain that, for me, Ross’s only *direct* intervention was sparing the life of Fleance, which I was totally fine with. It is certainly a departure from the original text to have the third murderer be Ross and to have Fleance not just “get away” amidst the scuffle, but Ross’ decision to find and then work to save the boy also felt very true to his character’s authentic nature. Thank you SO MUCH for watching and commenting with such thoughtfulness and insight! And THANK YOU for subscribing so I can hear more!! Very glad to have you part of this community 🥰🙏
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Thank You! 🌷 Re Ross: Don't forget the moment before the demise of Lady Macbeth in Cohen's film. We we see her standing at the top of a steep flight of stairs. Coen cuts to Ross entering the passageway and observing her. Fade out. The next time we see Lady Macbeth she's dead at the bottom of that stairway. The suggestion is as bold as it is ambiguous. Ross and the evil forces in this production are a bit too distracting for my taste. Coen even had the bad taste- in an otherwise visually stunning film - to SHOW the murder of Duncan. Shakespeare kept it off stage for a purpose: to keep the murder in the imagination of the audience. This emphasis on graphics to the exclusion of the real tragedy of serious character flaws is a big fail to me. Hey, if Hitchcock was able to keep audiences dangling by showing ONLY what was needed for suspense and character development why can't we apply that to the classics? 🙄
Oooo GREAT point re: Hitchcock and the offstage murder igniting imagination. And yes, that Ross-à-la-stairs moment was definitely the moment that came closest to pushing it too far into fabrication. AGREED Brutus 😁🙌 Yaaas!
No sugar is RIGHT! 😜 Thanks for watching my review David!! So cool to hear your thoughts, ESPECIALLY because they’re British and thereby superior to anything my lowly American fangirl self could ever say on the Bard 🙃🇬🇧 An Anglophile can dream haha. And I really appreciate you commenting. I’ll be in Michigan this summer. Hope to see you there (and on this channel again) soon!
I'm tired of them bastardizing classic source material if you aren't going to honor the source material don't even do it call it something else do your own thing
Awww THANKS JOSH 🤩 Means the world coming from you!! So glad you enjoyed this review. And so glad you’re a part of this Shakespeare nerding community. Thank you for watching and commenting! ❤️🙏
Thank you SO much for this. I'm new to Shakespeare, so having your insight in such an accessible way is getting me so excited to learn more about his work. Subscribed!
Thank YOU so much for your sweet comment! Very excited to have you in this fabulous community 🥰📜 This channel is *exactly* for you. Whether you're new to Shakespeare or are already a longtime devotee, this channel is all about showing how fun Shakespeare can be. So grateful to hear this helped!!!
Thanks for making my day 😌🙏✨ See you soon!
I remember Brian Cox's performance as Macbeth and I have always compared everyone to him , that includes Orsen Wells , Sir McKellen , Patrick Stewart , Fassbender and even Mr . Washington, I rate him by far the best , probably because he captured my imagination .Funny thing in the movie V for Vendetta , when V says to Evee"I dare do all to become a man , he who dares more is none ", before V finished that sentence my father said "Oh , that's Macbeth.".
I loved Hamlet the animated tales , that scene where he speaks to his father (the ghost ) really blew my mind , the art style , the way they all put in the effort to make it special.
I love Shakespeare's plays , truly magnificent.I actually love seeing people talk about Shakespeare the same way I feel about the man , his way with words , puns and how he deals with morose topics and humor.
This isn't Shakespeare it's a modern "woke" take on it I hate using that word but it is what it is. If you want Shakespeare you can't start with stuff like this that is so different and not even close to the source you can't call the Shakespeare. Go get some actual Shakespeare
This was the first video recommended to me this morning as I signed onto UA-cam. I have never seen your content before nor know you as a creator. I wouldn’t say I’m a fan of Shakespeare but I think your joy and excitement in delivering this review I just watched, I think I might have to dive in and have a peek and read his collection of work. It’s clear this is something you’re quite passionate about and I really appreciated you showing the world and strangers like me that level of passion. It feels rare these days - regarding everything. I know that feeling of “omg this is amazing” times, I dunno… a million - it’s exciting, it’s inspiring it makes you want to get up and, I dunno - create! Anyway, after I post this message on your video I will go grab my iPad look for the Shakespeare play - and read it. Yes, I know what I’m getting myself into, haha. I’ll promise to carry on even if I become utterly confused or slightly bored. But as an artist of sorts myself, seeing a fellow artist explode with this sort of excitement - it’s motivated me to give it a whirl! Thank you for your review and your honesty! ;-). -Michael, new york city
Oh Michael… I cannot TELL you what this means to me ❤️ As artists, we are so ridiculously brave with every creation. I admire your passion as well, which is evident in your words and generosity of spirit. I marvel at your thoughtfulness and am beyond grateful to have inspired someone to dive into Shakespeare. That’s what my channel’s mission is all about. THANK YOU for being a beautiful human and for commenting. You have made my day and have given me every reason to keep going 🙏🙂✨ Glad to have you in our community.
Wonderfully articulated and passionate review that does what good criticism is supposed to do.....it illuminates the artwork itself. I haven't yet seen it (I'm tired of continually adding new streaming services for only one or two things, and then forgetting to cancel them. :-) ), but your video makes me think I'll do that yet again....because I love Macbeth, and actually like the eerie unanswered questions of motivation any good production leaves us with. I think the trailers look wonderful, and I've always liked the Coen Brothers work; so it sounds like a potent combination! From your description, it also sounds like they "borrowed" some strong ideas and images from earlier Macbeth films: Polanski's and Kurzel's, to name two. Interestingly, Kurzel's 2016 film has the same moment that you describe about your own production: it begins with the burial of the Macbeths' baby. (And, like you, I think the loss of that baby is a pivotal motivation for Lady M.) And Polanski's 1971 film has Duncan awaken right before the murder as well. (Kurzel's might have too, come to think of it....) Without seeing it, I think that Denzel is a great choice for Macbeth--you actually can believe his soldierly prowess, which is something I never could quite buy with Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellan or Orson Welles. And, as you appear to confirm, it seemed to me that Frances McDormand would be an unusual choice for the Lady. Her usual acting style of late in her films is just too cold, too distant. And I think both of them, Denzel and Frances, are both a little old for the roles. It would be nice to transfer Marion Cotillard into this film as Lady M, because I thought that she and Michael Fassbender had a great and sexy presence together, in spite of the other substantial flaws of Kurzel's film. Fascinating review, Shelby! Thanks for sharing it, and congratulations on its popularity with viewers!
David, thank you for this eloquent, thoughtful, and sweet response to my review! Yes, I think we’d completely agree per our previous discussions about Macbeth. And I cannot believe that I still haven’t seen Kurzel’s 2016 film. Will certainly do so now, especially per your recommendation! I hear you about not wanting to add channels because you forget to cancel them-SAME for me 😉 So glad my review could serve as enough of a tide over until it’s available on streaming platforms you already have and love. Thank you dearest David for watching and commenting, and for being a part of this video’s climbing success!! 😘❤️
My mind was blown by the idea of opening the play with Lady M mourning the loss of a baby. Grief is a really powerful and interesting way to explain her ambition and complete abandon.
I'm so glad that that image spoke to you Kat! And whether a production chooses to have a choice like that play out onstage or whether it's simply within the actors' backstory, _something_ thorny *must* be present to spurn them on--either as a couple or as individuals. So the question becomes: What deep wound are they acting from that causes such unhinged deeds? 🔥🙂 Thanks so much for watching and commenting. Love blowing minds!
As someone who saw the production Shelby was in, I can say that it brought an accessibility and depth of character I have found missing in many other adaptations. That opening scene informed the performances throughout (not just that of Lady Macbeth) and intensified the tragedy. It was a production I found truly gripping to watch. Even my husband and stepson who aren't very well versed in Shakespeare enjoyed it, and we had a great conversation about the production, Macbeth, and Shakespeare after seeing it.
@@hurricanerae wow….. this is so moving 🥲🙏 Very grateful to you Rae for sharing this. So generous of you. It means the world to hear that my performance was memorable, understandable, and brought something new to the character and play to someone like you who knew it so well. Thank you “a thousand thousand” 💕
It's prob not in the Coen film bc it's prominent n the 2015 Macbeth with Michael Fassbender.
Your criticism of the portrayal of Lady Macbeth rings true to me, but surely McDormand's portrayal isn't an isolated accident. Her lack of passion had to be part of the overall vision of the production. And to me, that's the hole in the heart of this beautiful film.
In traditional productions, Macbeth's fatal flaw is not ambition, but a lack of will. He is a good and loyal soldier. He puts his whole career into serving his king and has been made Thane of Glamis. He puts one foot in front of the other and does what is expected of him. He is at heart a good man. This is especially striking in a Macbeth of Denzel's age.
In this production, a few words from witches and the tepid support of his wife transform Macbeth into a monster of ambition. But this is a man who has lived his whole life in service. It isn't believable to me that there has been a smoldering ambition under the surface for decades. Denzel's transition from faithful soldier to raving megalomaniac is not credible. For the title character - an everyman - to ring true, I think he must be basically good, but too easily led astray by the wiles of the witches and the wife (not coincidentally all female in my estimation).
In this conception, there are echoes of Eden and the myth of Pandora. It is women's dissatisfaction with the status quo that inevitably leads to ruin - at least in the Western literary tradition. Shakespeare's audience would have readily accepted Lady MacB as an Eve or Pandora figure. (Or Elsa in Wagner's Lohengrin...the list goes on and on.)
Of course today we are trying to free our literature from the conception that women's curiosity and ambition are the source of all evil. These are antiquated patriarchal ideas. But I think they provide the framework that makes the Scottish Play's character arcs make sense.
Gwen what a *stunning* reflection! Thank you so much for watching my review and for commenting with such verve, intelligence, and potent literary context. This is what I adore about Shakespeare’s universal themes. It sparks us to think deeply about not only our present, but where it originated from in the past and what it portends about our future.
I wonder too about the spark that lights the flame of Macbeth’s deeds. I never resonate with productions that give all the power to the witches, as if they’re the puppeteers and none of the characters have choice. And I am so intrigued by (and grateful for you bringing up) the Eve/Pandora concept of “women’s dissatisfaction with the status quo leading to ruin.” I completely agree that Shakespeare’s audience would have readily accepted her villainy for that canonical reason. My main challenge therefore to any contemporary adaptation on stage or screen is then to dive *deeper* into the text, because of our society’s ever-opening awareness, and present an alternative to Lady Macbeth’s stamp of villainess or “dissatisfied female.” Have you seen any other Macbeth films or productions that you felt served as more credible per the characters’ objectives or motivations?
Thank you for this excellent historically-framed food for thought! So grateful to have you in this community Gwen 🥰🙏 Please consider subscribing as I would LOVE to read your articulate insights and reactions on future videos. Anon ❤️
I have not seen such a production. However, I think I would like to see a Macbeth in which the weird sisters are not presented as witches, but as angels. MacB and the audience accept them as messengers of divine intent. The play then gives us many good points to ponder. Do we sit back and wait for God to open doors, or do we murder the current occupants of our promised thrones to speed things along? (They say the lord helps those who help themselves, no?) And what about those murders? Throughout history, true believers have been called upon to do unspeakable things to support their fervent belief that they are acting according to a divine plan. Could MacB's tortured speeches be wrapped around the idea that he is wrecked by a god who orders him to do evil things to achieve a desirable end? That's a philosophical question that resonates through the centuries, and which we still wrestle with today. It might take some pruning of the text to frame the thane's destruction this way, but surely less than Coen did. We have seen MacB transformed by the previously unsuspected pressure of a lifetime of ambition and by the prodding of a scheming wife. Neither satisfies. What if he were transformed - and destroyed in the transformation - when he is compelled to do evil things to achieve what he devoutly believes God intends?
WOW. That sounds like an AMAZING direction, rife with moral complexity. Like Ian McKellen’s character says in The DaVinci Code: “As long as there has been a God, there has been killing in his name.” Witches as angels… the internal disturbance of trusting Your deity’s orders even if the task is evil… incredible idea. Definitely food for thought going forward. Thank you Gwen!
please tell me you have something on romeo and juliet, i got the role this year and ive been obsessed with it . so happy to find a really amazing channel on shakespeare that isnt just the educational part but just the exciting nerdy bits and movie reviews! yessss love this
Mecca!! I’m so excited to have you in this community 😍🙌 You will be a GORGeous Juliet!
Tell me everything you want to know. Here’s a playlist of the R&J I have so far (link below) but let me know your burning questions and I will absolutely make a video answering YOUR specific questions that will benefit LOTS of others as well 🥰 Like… what the heck does this speech mean? Or… how do I look up these old timey words? Or… if Juliet’s only 13, do I play her as a “young kid” or as my own age?
Thank you for your sweet words and equally nerdy enthusiasm. Can’t wait to hear how I can help! ❤️ My R&J videos so far: ua-cam.com/play/PLsxWeoGZfy64CRPJRz1Vdgo7SErb83aUp.html
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Im blushinnnng omg thank you! and i watched all of them today lol!! i love your juliet monolouge so much, definitely will think of some questions soon.
@@meccamorphosis2782 YAY! So glad you enjoyed the videos. Can’t wait to help more and more ☺️ I await thine questions with baited breath m’lady!
Yay!! I almost didn't wanna watch because I was worried about spoilers...I was obviously completely forgetting that along with seeing multiple M*cbeths, I've also been in an adaptation. What could you have possibly spoiled!!! Great work-looking forward to seeing the film.
SO RIGHT THOUGH! That’s why I wanted to give a Spoiler Free section for those who haven’t seen it yet ☺️❤️ Thanks for watching and commenting Alex!
Your video made me want to watch it!, it is amazing to know such stories using your own way of storytelling Shelby
Thank you Arwa! What a sweet thing to say 🙂💙 I really appreciate you watching and commenting. So glad that you want to watch the film now!
The macbest review I've ever seen.
HAHA *you’re* the macbest 😂 Thanks so much for watching and commenting Alex! If Macbeth didn’t perish tragically, I hope he would have agreed as well.
I haven't seen this film yet, but from your description of the witches from this film, did you see the Patrick Stewart version?
The contorting witches in that one looked like the nurses from the horror film Silent Hill.
And the Lady M in that version was awesome!
YES the Patrick Stewart version is certainly solid! I’ve seen it, but would love to watch it again now that I’ve played Lady M. But I definitely remember the witches-LOVE the horror film take 😜👏 Thank you so much for watching and commenting!
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Kate Fleetwood. I just looked it up. She shot to the top of my list of favorite Lady M's after watching her in that version (2010)! It looks like it's on Amazon Prime.
Hi! Katherine Hunter is playing Lear again this year at the Globe. I am going on my first overseas trip this may and bought tickets to Much Ado at the globe ( which I am o'er the moon about). Still...if I had known. Oh well. I moving to have a blast for sure.
WOW that will be such a fabulous trip! Yesss I saw that she’s doing Lear and would love to go too, but Much Ado at The Globe will be FAB! Let me know how you like it 😍🙏 Thanks so much for watching and commenting Rick!
Ps will you please review that glorious midsummer nights dream from the 90s? Its one of my favorites I'd love to hear your wonderdul in-depth analysis of that one.
Absolutely!!! I said the same- midsummer fo sho
Omg yaaaaaas 🧚🏼♀️✨ The 1999 with Stanley Tucci, Michelle Pfeiffer, Kevin Kline, etc etc?? DONE M’LADY 👑🌙
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Yesss!! That one! Thank you!! I can't wait!
Oh yeah. That production is gloriously cast and beautiful to look at. It's a wonderful introduction to Shakespeare.
I'm so excited to watch after your review. Also. "Its a 400 year old play its been spoiled LOL"
Haha RIGHT?! 😅 So glad to hear this review helped you Risa! Thank you for watching and commenting and being generally awesome 😏🌟
You saying about the reality of the dagger made me think of an interview I read with Kathryn Hunter. She asked Joel Coen if she should be real or imagined by Macbeth. He told her "Both".
Mmmmmmm! What a PERFECT. ANSWER. 🤩🧟♀️ That seems right to me too. Thank you so much for sharing that amazing insight! And for watching and commenting 💖
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Well, that's the most enthusiastic reply I've ever received! You made my day. Btw the interview was on the Guardian website, should be easy enough to find if you fancy reading it.
Hello Shelby, your book collection seems like it's a lot of great reads. I was wondering if you can recommend to me some great books. I love reading inspirational , motivational and also science fiction books.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Jermar! 🥰📚 Yessss let's talk books. Obvi... I have a lot 😅 I love motivational, personal development books as well. So many to choose from, but I'd say the ones that really changed my life are The Untethered Soul, A Return to Love, The Miracle Morning, You Are a Badass, Conversations with God, The Artists Way, and The Underachiever's Manifesto. Hope this helps! Happy reading 🙃
The more I think about Macbeth the more I am amazed with Shakespeare's skill as a story teller, the number one rule of story telling is to never reveal the end/ending , and that's what we see early on, yet we are intrigued to see how Macbeth descends into evil.I hope we can one day get a Hamlet similar to this.
Thank you for watching and commenting Ahmed! Shakespeare really is an incredible storyteller, isn’t he? I love the idea of a Hamlet in this style 👍✨
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Thank you.Both my parents studied English Literature , my father memorized most of the plays , my mother would tell me about Hamlet when I was young ,I still remember seeing the animated tales as a young kid , my mind was blown , I was also lucky to visit William Shakespeare's birthplace when I was 10. Once again thank you for the reply.
WOW he MEMORIZED THEM?! 🤩👏👏👏 What a gift. Your parents are fabulous. And I lovvve the Animated Tales too! Watching them again as an adult is quite fascinating. So glad to have you here Ahmed! 😁
Ok, LOVE the review. I didn’t listen to you and I watched the whole thing because I’m not worried about spoilers and I really wanted your opinions even before having my own. 😊 BUT this was so crazy interesting and now I really want to see the things you described and see if and what I agree/disagree with!
Definitely do more of these…. Midsummer, Romeo+Juliet with Leo!!! Bahaha
Amazing!!! SO glad you didn’t listen to me because you wanted to listen to MORE of me 😜🙌 Yay! Stoked this is making you even more excited to see it. Thanks for watching and commenting and requesting Baz’s R+J! Good call-eth… 😏 Lots ‘o opinions on that one. Anon Heidi!
Agreed... The Witches Scenes were the Best of all the Adaptations. But Roman Polanski's version in 1971 still is the Best version I have ever seen because it uses the Film Medium to tell the story more than just the Dialogue.
Awesome AnnoyBoyPictures! Adore that version. Would love to watch it again in light of this new film to see how it compares after all of these years. Thank you so much for watching and commenting!
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Polanski's version is still the best. (IMHO) - because it gives more visualization to the story beyond the dialogue, but possesses a very great realism in the actions of the cast. And Jon Finch was just such a brooding charismatic actor and Francesca Annis is so easy on the eyes. That being said, Kurzel's version (2015) with Fassbender and Marion Cotillard was certainly more visually stunning, and explored an important plot point that Shakespeare never delved into, which was the fact that Lady Macbeth was unable to have children. A crucial fact and motivating factor that I thought was not developed enough even in the original play itself. But, the unforgiving flaw in Kurzel's adaptation was all the dialogue was mumbled in hush tones, something not becoming of Shakespearean plays, so it really ruined that film for me. In addition, the witches were not fully fleshed out, and many of the scenes (like where the Thane of Cawdor faced the king for his treachery was quite bland and lacked import and gravitas). He was after all sentenced to death by the king shortly thereafter, so you would have expected a more dramatic and flushed out scene.
Compare these both to Orson Welles' adaptation (1948), and you would cringe... I have no idea where he thought Macbeth was supposed to take place... but by the rocky cave sets, and ridiculous outfits and head dresses you certainly would not have assumed 11th Century Scotland.
Absolutely! Yes, I’ve heard that “hushed tones” annoyance about the Kurzel. Looking forward to finally seeing it soon 😁
please do more movie reviews! this was very good, and i am too lazy to watch the movies myself but i still like hearing about them. ha
Haha DONE! Any requests? What’s a Shakespeare play you’ve always wanted to know or understand that was thwarted by said laziness? 😜
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare You should definitely do film adaptation reviews if you enjoy doing them. It would be interesting to hear more of your analysis as you are someone who not only loves and deeply understands Shakespeare, but also has an understanding of the possibilities of a film adaption that aren't options for the stage. (It would also be a winner for the youtube algorithm as film analysis is crazy popular.)
My first request would be Ian McKellen's 1995 adaptation of Richard III. One of the first film adaptions (using Shakespeare's language) I remember watching. IMO it's gloriously over-the-top, and McKellen's performance cannot be beaten.
@@hurricanerae thanks so much Rae! Request NOTED 😁🙌✨ Thanks for watching and commenting and for your sweet words!!
Finally watched the film and I’ve maybe never agreed more with a review of anything ever, more than this. Hahaha! From Lady M to the Witches to Mcduff its so spot on!!
In answer to your question, I felt the starkness and lighting was BEAUTIFUL as well, and I feel it both added to the language by not taking from it and allowing the audience to experience that, but in some ways was so beautiful and noticeable that I was talking and thinking about that and forgot dialogue was happening.
Such a beautiful film overall! Loved Denzel!
Awesome Heidi!! 😍🙌 So glad you loved the film and that my review’s “question to ponder as you watch” was helpful ❤️ Happy to hear you enjoyed the film. I agree completely-that the starkness of the production design both supported and detracted from the text at different times. Thank you for watching and commenting! 🥰🙏 Hazzah to both of us watching more and more Shakespeare films!
Great review of my absolute favorite Shakespeare tragedy !! Overall I thought Denzel did a fine job but he is one of my favorite actors. I thought shooting the movie in black & white really helped to create that 'other worldly' atmosphere !! I have an education & acting background and I've had some experience with combat choreography for stage plays & film. Maybe that's why I really loved Justin Kurzel 's adaptation with Michael Fassbinder & Marion Cotillard !! May I say that I really love the excitement and perspective you give The Bard in your videos !!☺️☺️☺️ Your articulate, attractive, and well spoken. Peace ☮️ to you and have a wonderful week.
Thank you so much for your sweet words and generosity of spirit Pastor Jim! 🥰🙏✨ So nice to have you in this community. And what a great point about the other worldliness! The Witches would have been proud 😁 I adore Denzel too-how he brings a palpable warmth to whatever he does. I really appreciate your compliments, especially me as *articulate* because sometimes I feel like my joy for Shakespeare makes me seem a little crazy ha! Glad to meet you and a hearty WELCOME to Shelby Loves Shakespeare 🥰 Did you see my latest video? Joan of Arc burning at the stake performed hilariously by Mary Poppins 😜☂️🇬🇧☕️🔥 Enjoy! And thanks for commenting!!
Have you seen Macbeth (2015)? For me that is one of the best film adoptation of the play. Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard play the title roles perfectly. Michael's Macbeth has an unnvering intensity to his madness yet the performance is understated and not over the top; he expresses so beautifully with his eyes and you can see a storm of madness and paranoia raging behind the eyes. He is at once commanding yet also under the spell of Lady Macbeth. Let me know what you think of that adoptation.
YES Mani! I think that adaptation is very well done and has some extraordinary moments. When he says “O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife,” I completely believe it-the madness, the heartbreak, his own awareness that he is not himself. I absolutely agree that it’s one of the best, but there are still a few things that don’t strike me as strong enough choices in service to the text. I’m actually rewatching this film now to do a full review of it in an upcoming video because quite a few have asked my thoughts on it 😍 Look out for it and let me know what you agree with and don’t? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thank you for watching and commenting Mani! So glad to have you in this community 😁🙌
*_SPOILER FREE_* beginning! On the fence about seeing it? Enjoy 4 minutes of strategically vague thoughts! And I let you know EXACTLY when to leave before the witches *I MEAN SPOILERS* click in 😉 Watched the whole review? COMMENT with your agree/disagree thoughts BELOW 🥰⬇
Interesting, I personally thought the dagger speech missed the mark with flat delivery. The dagger being the door handle was exceptionally clever, however, even though that cleverness did bring with it textual problems that were glossed over. Macbeth for example says "Come let me clutch thee... I have thee not" without ever actually doing it.
Also interesting, I was struck by your high praise of Denzel Washington's performance while being less impressed with Frances McDormand. Because for me, I was more dismayed by Denzel. Then I heard you played Lady Macbeth whereas I played Macbeth and now I wonder if it's more that we just know what's missing in the roles we ardently studied personally. Anyway, all the rest you said was also my take: Kathryn Hunter is worth the price of admission alone, either here or as Puck or anywhere, and the rest of the cast was perfection.
Thank you so much for this thoughtful comment! Great point about the dagger, and YES how interesting that we were most critical of the parts we’ve previously played. I think you’re right that that has a huge part to play in our analysis and observation of other performances. As actors, it’s our job to become advocates for our characters. It seems we’ve both done a fine job 😌♥️ “Kathryn Hunter is worth the price of admission.” Couldn’t have said it better myself. I hope the recording of her Lear becomes available to stream one day! Thanks so much for watching 🥰🫶
Still trying to track this one down on Blu-ray 😢
Hope you can find it soon! It was originally on Apple TV if that’s helpful? Thanks for watching and commenting 🥰🙏
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Ya unfortunately I don’t plan on subscribing to apple’s streaming service. I did recently see it posted on Amazon. But I believe it’s a Uk release so it probably won’t play on my player.🤨
Watched the whole thing before seeing the movie, and now I'm even more excited! Ross is actually my favorite character--poor guy!--and this sounds like nothing I've ever seen, but really, really fun. Can't wait to dig in! (Also, hella geeked for Kathryn Hunter.)
Excellent, detailed review overall. Super fun.
So glad Glenn! 🤩🙏 This Ross 2.0 awaits your fandom with baited breath. Thank you for commenting and letting me know that I was able to spark your excitement further ✨ Can’t WAIT to hear what you think of it! Pop back here afterwards and tell me all the things. Hazzah!
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Definitely, definitely will. (I'm sure I'll have feeeeeelings.)
I interpreted Lady Macbeth's "automaton" demeanor as reflecting the cold, sterile, and mechanical world they are living in.
Great point Ramon! Mechanical is a perfect word. So then I wonder if she *enjoyed* that world and *that’s* why she wanted to rule it? Because you’re right, she certainly didn’t appear very upset by that oppressive sterile life (“sterile” being a doubly apt word for the art design and her childless circumstance). I just wish I could have understood *why* she wanted to take the throne. Was it because she loved the current world or loathed it? It’s a big temptation for actors to reflect the tone rather than the text, and your point gives a really interesting context to her coldness. Thank you for watching and commenting! SO lovely to have you on this channel 🥰🙌
yeah I'm hoping you watch and/or review the Polanski adaptation. I haven't seen this one (I'll need to watch it) but if this is the most abstract version of macbeth, then IMO polanski's is the most visceral. And as expected, it is absolutely brilliant how it handles the unworldly aspects of the play.
I wish there was more done with the sound design. This could've used a low rumble or just something to create unease, the film felt kinda sonically empty
Marc, what a great point! One of my favorite moments was a tiny sound design effect of having a flapping bird sound when the witch transformed from her Gollum-like state to the caped trio, foreshadowing her ultimate return to the crow form. BUT THEN THE SOUND TOUCHES WERE GONE you’re so right! I agree wholeheartedly that that was another missed opportunity. Well spotted! 🙃 Brutus (another commentor) also mentioned wanting more of that Hitchcock vibe-who was a master of suspense indeed, much helped by Bernard Herrmann’s score and the ever-present tense soundscape. I would have liked more of that too. Perhaps the lack of an underlying sound was what allowed me not to be sucked in properly and why I wouldn’t need to see it again. Thank you so much for watching and sharing your comment Marc! I hope you subscribe 🙏😍 So glad to have you in this community.
For me too, the witches were the best part of the film. I also loved the dissembling Ross, but I question if he was for good- I wonder what he will be telling Fleance after the events are over, because we know Fleance will be king and it seems to me the only way he'll become king is a similar path to Macbeth. I do love Denzel but I found many of his speeches hard to follow and the rate at which the text was coming out too fast and not enough variety. He was truly electric anytime he could match sizable emotion with text- I'd love to see him play it on stage in person. And I agree I absolutely believed him as a soldier! Great review my friend!!
Mmm “dissembling” what a perfect word for him! GREAT point about perhaps seeing the saving of Fleance as a tool for future political opportunity-garnering favor now so that the eventual king will “owe him” later… or at least trust him enough to be the chief advisor to the young monarch. And yesss I agree about Denzel’s sometimes speaking too softly to really honor the text, which is probably why I was so ignited when he clicked into badass soldier mode 😎 THANK YOU for your thoughtful comments Christine! And for watching and liking and nerding out. Hazzah to fellow Shakespeare lovers 🥰🙌
Loved your review, looking forward to watching it and watching your “Roundtable Zoom” Anon
Anon indeed ☺️🙌 Thanks for watching Deborah! Can’t wait to chat even more about this film.
I saw an interesting interpretation of Lady M many years ago at RADA in Stratford. Macbeth was clearly a warrior in his late middle age - still strong and dangerous, but graying and scarred. When Lady M walked out there was a gasp from the audience - she was maybe 20 at most and had an ethereal quality as she floated out, long blonde hair glittering in the light,. After the gasp, the audience went "aha!"- it was no stretch at all that she has huge sway over him - Macbeth would do anything for her. And her choices, then later madness made sense - she was very young and beautiful and was yearning for everything the world could give her! She has an older husband who is gone at war much of the time, but to be a sort of Queen - oh yes she wants it. She would dangle her sexuality before her husband, giving and taking away as needed. But in the end, as the reality of the murders sets in, the blood and horror, the change in Macbeth as the deed was done - reality was so different than the fantasy and it fractured her. Really fascinating take.
W. O. W. This approach makes INCREDIBLE sense 🤯❤️🙌 Thank you very, very much for sharing this LAMusing! And for watching and commenting 🥰 So happy to have you in this community! The idea of floating out is such an engaging image. Many make a similar assumption of Desdemona in Othello-that her ethereal quality melts him and he’ll do anything she likes, which is why he’s so utterly destroyed at the thought of her accused unfaithfulness. Though Desi never consciously manipulates anyone with her “whiles” as Lady M does. Love this direction for Mrs. Mackers. Fascinating is right!
I admired this version of the play, and concurred with most of your comments, especially in respect of Ross, who was a pure Coen character if ever I saw one.
Thanks for your passionate review!
I liked Frances McDormand a good deal more than you though, although I'd agree that there's a frostiness in the marriage that distances us as an audience.
I was actually a big fan of the "unsex me here" speech. I enjoyed that Lady Macbeth had an anguish in her voice; that there was something plaintive yet resolute in the rejection of her femininity. As an older, post-menopausal woman, she is perhaps mourning her child-bearing years, and bitter that they didn't bear fruit. I read this as her simply asking these dark spirits to finish the corruption that age and nature began in her woman's breast.
This is a woman who perhaps never recovered from the loss of her child; in this interpretation, the fires of her marriage have waned, and she substitutes pursuit of power for a love that's grown cold. She is both literally and figuratively barren - her ambition is all that remains.
I also loved the detail that she seems to have a little dagger earring in this scene!
Matthew this is GORGEOUS. You’re spoiling my poetry-loving heart with this articulate, thoughtful writing!
“Something plaintive yet resolute in the rejection of her femininity” mmm such an eloquent way to describe this version’s direction. I think you have identified exactly what Joel Coen and Frances McDormand were going for. I love the idea of her “unsex me” moment being a final straw/drain of whatever remaining femininity resides rather than a full overhaul. Definitely a solid take.
So glad to have you and your brilliance in this community 😍📜🙏 Thank you for watching and commenting Matthew. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on future videos!
Shelby I made an earlier post but I was pumped after watching your review for a third time 🙂. I thought Denzel did a good job and as a former soldier myself I can say he was quite believable. I thought Frances M's performance felt really one dimensional !! Marion Cotillard in Justin Kurzel 's adaptation was far more appealing & engaging in my opinion. I have some thoughts on certain scenes & lines from a faith perspective that I wanted to get your feedback on. I'll send those in a few days. Shelby you are awesome, lovely, and your channel is rocking it !!! Keep up the great work- I am stoked !!! 😊😃😉 PEACE ☮️ to you and have a wonderful weekend.
Sounds awesome, can’t wait to hear your thoughts on those scenes and lines! Thanks so much for your enthusiasm about my channel 🥰🙌 Please share it with anyone you think would like it as well!
First off, let me say that I love you.
I have attempted to watch every possible play of Macbeth. Living in Cedar City Utah, which has the yearly Shakespeare festival. I am thrilled every time that they put on the play Macbeth. This movie is by far the best "play" I have ever seen or experienced. Catherine's portrayal of the three witches... Hypnotic! Francis' casting of Lady Macbeth was genius, and her portrayal.. .spotless. at first I was a little put off by Denzel Washington in the role of Macbeth but after watching it a dozen times....who could have done it better.
Omg you’re so sweeet 🥰 Hello Bob and WELCOME to this fun Shakespeare community! I’m so glad you enjoyed the film and am super grateful that you commented on my review. AND WE HAVE THE SAME LAST NAME! 😜 ‘Tis fate. Thanks for watching and for your sweet sweet words 😁✨ Looking forward to more and more videos!
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare
"By a name
I know not how to tell thee who I am:"
🌹
Probably won’t watch it then. I don’t really think Shakespeare works in movies. The only time I really enjoyed it was at The Globe in London (and I also went the commoner route and stood which was more engaging but also impossible to fall asleep 😜)
Haha YAS GROUNDLING 😜🚫💤 So glad this video helped you make the decision of whether or not to watch the film Ryan! I’m always stoked when a new Shakespeare movie comes out because my tiny nerddom is suddenly cool for a second and some are finally exposed to this gorgeous poetry for the first time, but I agree that it’s *extremely* hard to do it in both a clear and compelling way. Thanks for watching and commenting!! 🥰
I’m regards to the plot. I came into this film directly after seeing Throne of Blood by Kurosawa and I think that really helped. Even if there were differences. Also I loved the witches in this film
Yesssss Throne of Blood is a masterpiece! 🩸🎬 So glad you enjoyed both, and I really appreciate you watching and commenting on my review. Thank you Jacob! Glad to have you in this community 🙂
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare happy to be here to rediscover my love of Shakespeare. 😊
one more thing - I think that this production DID take some cures from the Polanski one. It sounds like Ross in particular is modeled after his characterisation there.
For a great Lady Macbeth, I'd recommend Kate Fleetwood in the 2010 film with Patrick Stewart as Macbeth. I'm no expert, but she was frightening, and I thought the murder and the surrounding scenes with her and Stewart were harrowing.
Wait! A Shakespearean tragedy and everybody dies!?!?
I enjoyed the 2010 adaptation with Patrick Stewart and I'm looking forward to checking out this one
I knowww SHOCKER 😭😂 Thanks for watching & commenting Matthew! Can’t wait to hear what you think once you’ve seen it.
Loved this film ,saw it yesterday. I thought Frances MacDormand was amazing and a joy to see.
The Ross thing I was less happy with since ,while adaptations and interpretations are one thing, this was a bit too far.
I am talking particularly about Fleance being still around and Ross riding off with him.
Did not spoil the film for me though
Maybe it attempts to answer a question long posed by the play .
Thanks so much for watching and commenting BillyCaspersGhost! 👻😁
Love this!!
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Lincoln! 😍🙌
Spoilers in this comment, you have been warned:
If William Shakespeare was made in the style of Alfred Hitchcock. That’s the best way I can describe it. The Twilight Zone analogy was certainly correct. In the play, there is a short scene that explains the Three Witches’ (and their Master’s) intentions, but it is cliché and unnecessary and would have bogged down the film if it had been dramatized. The film works better with the ambiguity. Also, Ross is given more of an active role and his intentions are not always clear. My guess is that he is working for both sides, a double agent, although I think he chooses whichever side has the upper hand and whichever side is to his own immediate benefit. There is one mistake in his storyline. Ross witnesses both Banquo’s murder and Macbeth’s dinner party afterwards. But there is no natural way he could do so, especially not because he spends time searching for Fleance when the other two murderers are already returning to report to Macbeth? How does he find Fleance, leave him with the Old Man, and still beat the first two Murderers back to the dinner party? Unless his horse is Pegasus, I don’t see how.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Brian! Great insights and questions. 👍 I think Twilight Zone is such a cool angle and would love to see it applied to some other Shakespeare plays.
GUSH? I almost nodded watching it. I did NOT like what Coen did with Ross - it changed the weight of the stakes. They should ultimately fall on Macbeth, not be privvy to some behind-the-scenes-interloper. The main "tragedy" of the story lies in Macbeth's character flaws, not determining factors of outside agents like the witches or Ross. When they become too important or the emphasis is too much on the horrific effects in the story it becomes a tale of horror and not the tragic fall of a great warrior. But to each his own! I just don't think what the Coen's produced is what Shakespeare ultimately said with his play. All the same, it's great to see the Shakespeare love! Haha. 👍🏽
Brutus, what an amazing response! Agreed, I LOVE how much Shakespeare sparks debate 😍💥🙌 I’ve been *hoping* someone would disagree with me ha! I definitely hear you about Ross. I hate when productions decide that the witches are controlling everything because, like you said, it takes away the Macbeths’ agency. And I think I was so taken by the wildly different direction on Ross (another commenter called him “dissembling” which I loved) that I automatically was like YESSSS! I still maintain that, for me, Ross’s only *direct* intervention was sparing the life of Fleance, which I was totally fine with. It is certainly a departure from the original text to have the third murderer be Ross and to have Fleance not just “get away” amidst the scuffle, but Ross’ decision to find and then work to save the boy also felt very true to his character’s authentic nature. Thank you SO MUCH for watching and commenting with such thoughtfulness and insight! And THANK YOU for subscribing so I can hear more!! Very glad to have you part of this community 🥰🙏
@@ShelbyLovesShakespeare Thank You! 🌷 Re Ross: Don't forget the moment before the demise of Lady Macbeth in Cohen's film. We we see her standing at the top of a steep flight of stairs. Coen cuts to Ross entering the passageway and observing her. Fade out. The next time we see Lady Macbeth she's dead at the bottom of that stairway. The suggestion is as bold as it is ambiguous. Ross and the evil forces in this production are a bit too distracting for my taste. Coen even had the bad taste- in an otherwise visually stunning film - to SHOW the murder of Duncan. Shakespeare kept it off stage for a purpose: to keep the murder in the imagination of the audience. This emphasis on graphics to the exclusion of the real tragedy of serious character flaws is a big fail to me. Hey, if Hitchcock was able to keep audiences dangling by showing ONLY what was needed for suspense and character development why can't we apply that to the classics? 🙄
Oooo GREAT point re: Hitchcock and the offstage murder igniting imagination. And yes, that Ross-à-la-stairs moment was definitely the moment that came closest to pushing it too far into fabrication. AGREED Brutus 😁🙌 Yaaas!
I felt that I was watching the ultimate version of the play throughout. Minimal cast, simple clean sets, no added sugar!
No sugar is RIGHT! 😜 Thanks for watching my review David!! So cool to hear your thoughts, ESPECIALLY because they’re British and thereby superior to anything my lowly American fangirl self could ever say on the Bard 🙃🇬🇧 An Anglophile can dream haha. And I really appreciate you commenting. I’ll be in Michigan this summer. Hope to see you there (and on this channel again) soon!
I'm tired of them bastardizing classic source material if you aren't going to honor the source material don't even do it call it something else do your own thing
Thanks for watching and commenting Jonathan! Grateful you enjoyed my review :)
MY FAV VIDEO
Awww THANKS JOSH 🤩 Means the world coming from you!! So glad you enjoyed this review. And so glad you’re a part of this Shakespeare nerding community. Thank you for watching and commenting! ❤️🙏
Masterpiece!!! This channel needs P r o m o s m!
Thanks so much for watching Kameron! 🥰🙌