Comparing Directing Styles Two Film Versions of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

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Comparing Directing Styles Two Film Versions of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

This essay shows the subtle differences that can occur between directors, even when they are basing the movie off of almost the exact same script. Almost no two movies are exactly alike, no matter how hard the directors and actors might try. Minor personality differences and scene changes greatly affect the atmosphere and meaning of the same movie. One example of this is the movie Romeo and Juliet. This movie tells the gripping story of two young lovers who are forbade to see each other because of a viscous feud between the two families. I'll be looking at the older 50's version of Romeo and Juliet and comparing it to the newer version of Romeo and Juliet.

What stuck out as being most different between the two versions of the movie were how the characters acted. In the classic version, Juliet is a much more timid girl and seems much less "experienced" than in the newer version. I feel that her shyness makes her more desireable. It makes their romance seem much more innocent and more meaningful at the same time. I feel that the new Romeo is much less shy in the newer version. This makes their love seem much more lustful, rather than meaningful. Another actor that seemes to change drastically is Tybalt. In the original version, he seems to be much more in control. Tybalt in the newer version is extremely bitter and much more controlled by his uncle.

There are other subtle differences between the two movies, including the scenes. The original movie is set in a very traditional setting. The party takes place in a castle and everything is very fitting for the time frame. Not very original, but still effective. The new version is a bit more imaginative. It's not only more modern, but it's an amplified version of our world today; something that appeals to the viewing public. There are guns, security guards, cars, a pool, and a modern ballroom with a working elevator. These differences in the settings all have an effect on the overall movie. Other things that change the mood are the drugs, the wild party, and the drag queen. All things that add a lot of character to a movie.

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