Analysis of Baz Luhrmann's Use of Cinematic Devices in the Opening Scenes of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

Analysis of Baz Luhrmann's Use of Cinematic Devices in the Opening Scenes of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

Baz Luhrmann's 1997 film version of Romeo and Juliet is updated to the

modern age while still retaining the original dialogue. The opening

shots are unusual but highly affective. Luhrmann starts off with a

static long shot focusing on a TV in the middle of the screen. The

television immediately explains that the story has been modernised. He

then zooms in slowly, taking the audience with him as we wonder what

is going on and what will happen next. The TV changes channel to a

news report presented by a coloured female, showing us that the film

is firmly set in the 20th Century. The camera then jump into the

screen and reveals long shots, pans and aerial shots of the modern

city of Verona. This is very effective at adding to the appeal for

teenagers. Two sky scrapers, one belonging to the Montagues and one

the Capulets, are shown in this scene. This gives us the understanding

that they are business rivals. Between the two buildings is a large

statue of Jesus, which could show that religion is between the two

families. The music over this scene is a very loud dramatic orchestral

piece which adds a vivid impact and excites the viewer. Once again a

voiceover tells the prologue from the original play. The ending of the

film is told in this introduction, but rather than spoiling the film,

it makes the viewers wonder how the ending is going to be caused. Here

several shots of the huge statue of Jesus that towers over ...

... middle of paper ...

... below with Jesus in

between. The police helicopter then flies over, which backs up the

modern theme and already tells us that the houses are in tremendous

trouble. A news-report with the headline 3rd Civil Brawl, tells us

that this sort of thing is not uncommon.

I really enjoyed Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of Romeo & Juliet. In my

opinion, the film would have been a lot better without the unrealistic

speeds, sound-effects, and actions. I would of preferred to see a more

realistic and serious film with less humour. With all the camera

tricks, special effects, and action, it's easy to lose the story in

the style. Luhrmann's intent was never to drown Shakespeare's dialogue

in technique, but it happens. But all in all, I believe this film was

a success at converting the romantic tragedy, into a modern Hollywood

movie.