Comparing the Luhrmann and Zeffirelli Versions of Romeo and Juliet

Comparing the Luhrmann and Zeffirelli Versions of Romeo and Juliet Romeo and Juliet is a play by Shakespeare written in the sixteen

century. It is a play of passion, lover and anger.

Both the Luhrmann and the Zeffirelli versions of the Shakespearian

play, “Romeo and Juliet”, have common scenes. The following essay will

compare and contrast one particular scene that from both the movies.

It will juxtapose many different relating features, from the diverse

aspects of film-making, to the different ways in which the play has

been altered to satisfy the tastes of different audiences.

Before these two films are discussed, it is necessary to give a

basic idea of the story of “Romeo and Juliet”, and also to give a

summary of what the two films are about.

"Romeo and Juliet" tells the tale of two "star-crossed" teenage

lovers, who secretly in love with each other and then marry. Their

families, the Montague’s and Capulets, have been fierce enemies for

decades, and, even as Romeo and Juliet say their wedding vows, new

violence breaks out between the clans. When Romeo mistakenly believes

Juliet is dead, he poisons himself. And, when Juliet discovers that he

is dead, she too commits suicide.

Franco Zeffirelli’s version of Romeo and Juliet was created in

close authenticity to the original play. It was directed by Franco

Zeffirelli, in 1968 by Paramount films. This traditional music helps

to assemble the 15th Century ambience and atmosphere that Zeffirelli

is attempting to place the audience into. The main aspects of

cinematography which are used in this film are close ups of Romeo and