Inevitably there will be some modernising (visual and SFX) especially in scenes such as the ‘splitting of the ship’ at the beginning, but this will not be as intrusive as in Taymor’s adaptation; I would use these effects minimally – specifically to dramatise characters such as Ariel, Prospero and Caliban. I would also utilise it, as a form of catharsis, to reconstruct important motifs such as the coloniser (Prospero) vs. the native colonised (Caliban). In addition to this, certain special effects could add dimension to Shakespeare’s play. This idea of a magical island would be better illustrated, stagecraft for instance could be flawlessly executed - which would allow me to dramatise certain elements better. In Scenes where Prospero lingers over his daughter, or is watching from afar, I would use low angle/over the shoulder shots to convey Prospero’s dominance. Even making Prospero appear ‘from out of nowhere’ in shots would elevate Prospero’s status, both as a conjurer and a preternatural character. Caliban’s animalistic nature would be better exemplified through close-up and tracking shots.
Although costume will be conventional as in most Tempest adaptations (Prospero in his patterned cloak, Caliban bear like an animal) - this in no way will generalise the characters at hand. I will aim to move away from archetypal perceptions. For instance Prospero’s plain cloak will not represent him plainly as a ‘loving father’, or the ‘rightful Duke of Milan’. Prospero’s character would be left ambiguous to provoke enigma. I will aim to depict Prospero as a ‘loving father’, but also show him as a manipulative and somewhat vindictive Machiavellian – he will be portrayed in an ambiguously, so his character is open for interpretation. As mentioned previously, he will be positioned dominantly in some shots, such as when he is watching over his daughter – but I will also reiterate his position as a protective father; when he lectures and advises her. Ariel is a genderless spirit, but is nevertheless a spirit in anguish, so I would want to make Ariel’s physical presence known. He would be dressed in a way which seems almost as if he is fading away (CGI), however, I will ensure the CGI does not take away from the complexity of Ariel’s character.
I feel this adaption as a whole, makes Shakespeare’s work more accessible for a modern audience – especially as a TV adaptation. The sequential linear narrative allows for a much more effective form of storytelling.
by
shakz1234 (student)
