A Comment on the Effectiveness of Baz Luhrmans Screen Adaptation of "Romeo and Juliet"

A Comment on the Effectiveness of Baz Luhrmans Screen Adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet”

In this essay I shall be focusing on many types of costume, settings, props and the music/soundtrack. I will try to explain in my own view how each of these points of focus effect the quality of the new film. The differences between the new and the old style of capturing the storyline will be commented on for how they change people’s views of the story.

I believe the time zone of Baz Luhrman’s film has a large effect although many subtle features are still relative to the old style of the story for example; both styles are set in bustling cities with two large families in the midst/grip of an ancient grudge against each other. However the use of cars and modern amenities like guns and other modern props and the Police instead of the Prince’s forces all affect the story’s impact, these changes are all good changes in my view all of which affect the pace of the story with car chases and shootouts etc. This change in pace and impact adds to the build up of tension while highlighting the seriousness of the feud between the two great families.

The music soundtrack is very modern with a lot of high pace upbeat music, in contrast to some sad music for extra effect for example, when Romeo kills Thybault and is kneeling in the rain crying the music is sad and downbeat adding to sadness and feeling. When the Montague boys are riding in their car they have a loud drum and bass piece of music almost letting you know what these boys are like loud and brash a great effect in this section of the film. I believe the new music is a change of effect for the ...

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During the meeting of Romeo and Juliet, Juliet is witnessed wearing the wings of an angel. This symbolises her beauty and perfection. The Angelic feel is not only a clever symbol but part of a modern costume ball. This simple use of costume helps the audience sympathise with Romeo and begin to understand what Romeo was trying to do. Romeo is also dressed in shining armour which paints the image of a hero.

The Guns used in the film are referred to as swords. This is Baz Luhrman’s way of trying to retain the authentic Shakespearian feel while placing it in the context of a twentieth century tale. This also emphasises the dangers posed by the feud “brawling love”.

The dramatic setting with high rise buildings; a Gothic church helps create the feeling of the tale unfolding. The Fact that the two families own part of the metropolis of the city environment adds to the idea that they are wealthy influential families. If it were set in a quiet village the star crossed lovers wouldn’t have much of an obstacle between them. The scene upon the stage on Verona beach is used as a casual reminder that you are watching a play and it is deliberately being melodramatic.

The resulting film has captured the struggle and massive emotions first captured on stage. It has placed them amongst an everyday setting which allows people of all ages to relate to it despite the obvious language barrier. Had Shakespearian language not been used the authentic passion first captured in the tale would have been lost. Baz Luhrman’s use of certain devices and styles adds great effect all of which add up to equal if not improve the original play.

M.Gell