Compare the openings of Zefirelli and Luhrmann’s film adaptations of ‘Romeo and Juliet’

Zefirelli's film opens with a panoramic view of the city; it is very peaceful and calm, which suggests a storybook, fairy tale setting. Luhrmann's film opens with a newscaster, which instantly establishes that it is a modern day setting and a modern day film. Zefirelli's setting throughout the film is medieval, it is set in Verona, it has a fairy tale element and is traditional to the original legend, which Shakespeare based his play on. Luhrmann's film is adapted to America in the 90's, this is so s young audience can understand and identify the play better. Lurhmann's audiences are thrilled and shocked by the setting as it goes against their expectations. The use of lighting in both films is crucial in creating effects; both of the directors use naturalistic lighting, to convey the time scale of events. For example both fight scenes in the plays are outside. Zeferelli and Luhrmann use the bright midday light to highlight the brush colours of the gangs costumes and Lurhmann's case to highlight the Montague boys bright yellow car, using naturalistic light.

Sound is also an important device in establishing effects. Zeferelli also tends to use sound in a naturalistic way as Luhrmann uses sound in a sophisticated way performing sound effect, which creates tension and draws attention to particular points, situation and characters. For example when Tybolt spins his gun on his finger it has been highlighted to portray Tybolt as a much more menacing character and to add tension. The use of non-digetic sound is important in both films; soothing and traditional music. Zeffirelli uses a voice over in standard English as his prologue to once again add a fairy tale element. Luhrmann prefers a contemporary, modern prologue. He does this to give an immediate impact and create excitement and interest. Where Zeffirelli uses his prologue to relax and settle the audience into a tranquil mood, Luhrmann introduces non-digetic sounds for impact and to help the audience understand the plot and identify with the action. The sounds also sign post the action for a younger audience. This second prologue is a voice over delivered in a dramatic way by the actor Pete Posrlethinite. He also uses choral music to make the events significant and dramatic. Each director uses a variety of camera techniques to create a particular style within their film. Both directors use close-up camera shots when introducing characters. This helps the audience remember key characters; it also creates tension and rivalry between characters as the camera cuts from one close up to another. For example Luhrmann uses a close-up shot at the beginning of the film which shows the Montague boys acting very immature as they roar their dialogue into the viewers face.