Thursday, March 20, 2014

The Tempest (2010)


IMDb plot summary: Prospero, the deposed Duke of Milan, who lives in exile on a remote island as a sorcerer, uses his powers to shipwreck his usurper brother on the island.
Directed by Des McAnuff. Starring Christopher Plummer, Julyana Soelistyo, Dion Johnstone, and Trish Lindstrom.

Not to be confused with the Julie Taymor-directed version, also from 2010, this version of the famous play was filmed live at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival and stars Christopher Plummer as Prospero. The Tempest has never been one of my favorite Shakespeare plays, as it wanders around a LOT and I've always been extremely uncomfortable with Prospero's treatment of those around him, but this production tells the story well and brings out the humor throughout.

The costume design is worth a mention by itself, as it is absolutely gorgeous, especially for Ariel and Caliban and their inhuman appearances. I found myself visually fascinated by Ariel in every scene -- wonderfully done.

It's not brilliant, but it's a good watch for those who enjoy the show, Plummer, or just simulating the experience of seeing a live Shakespeare play.

Flickchart: #807 out of 2072, below August: Osage County and above Star Trek Into Darkness.

3.5 stars.

Buy the DVD on Amazon.

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