Comparing The Two Film Versions Of Romeo And Juliet

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A Comparison of the Two Film Versions of Romeo and Juliet I have been studying the prologue to 'Romeo and Juliet' written by the magnificent playwright, William Shakespeare sometime between 1594 and 1596. Still globally acknowledged, it has been restyled by many directors for both stage and screen. Shakespeare starts his play with a prologue: an introduction to a play or other piece of writing. The prologue sets the tone of the theatrical production; it outlines …show more content…

I think Luhrmann choose to do this because he is trying to set up a traditional presentation as the anchorwoman reads the prologue, so that when his vision appears, it would be even more explosive and unpredictable of what will happen next.

Despite his alternative approach, Luhrmann repeats his prologue, but this time in a voice over, akin to Zeffirelli. The second prologue is narrated by a white male who sounds traditional, analogous to Zeffirelli's narration. Luhrmann obviously feels it is crucial for the spectators to understand the prologue of the play, which is why it is doubled: spoken once by the newscaster and secondly in a voice over by the Fair. Luhrmann flashes the words of the prologue on screen. Luhrmann's style at once unmasks the role of religious symbol. With the words he sends out a spiritual message, all the T's are in the shape of a crosses in relation to Jesus, giving us a religious impression which suggests "death marked love" and suicide. Luhrmann shows the audience a very crowded Verona, suggesting jeopardy, excitement and turmoil. Although Luhrmann has a modern depiction …show more content…

Zeffirelli uses mild music, which sounds very relaxed and dreamy to contrast with the surroundings. Zeffierlli wants the audience to focus on the setting and what they can hear. The music is calm, jolly, as well as old fashioned. On the other hand, Luhrmann's sound is velocitised. Luhrmann uses a gospel soundtrack, which becomes louder and builds up a crescendo. He also uses special effects, e.g. helicopter sound. Luhrmann's sound is done in a particular way to interest and excite his mainstream audience.

Both directors also use other techniques in their version of 'Romeo and Juliet'. Luhrmannn uses neon lights, traffic lights and flashing lights in the city, which portray the film as modern. Alternatively, there are hardly any lighting involved in the Zeffirelli version because the prologue was filmed outside during daytime. Zeffirelli uses natural light, which makes the film look more realistic. Luhrmann also uses other techniques like graphics and newspaper headlines. The styles and techniques of both directors are very effective in that both versions draw you into the

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