Shakespeare (Animated) (Box Set)

Advantages: A timeless collection, with a lot for your money.
Disadvantages: Seems a lot of money.

...This is a fantastic box set, almost The Complete Works of Shakespeare in DVD form! The range and sheer volume of plays which is covered in this box set is phenomenal. The quality of the acting is incredible, and the plays, although all in the seemingly confusing Shakespearean language are accessible due to the talent of the actors and their outstanding performances. I cannot claim to have seen every one of the plays in this collection, however the majority, of which I have seen, are well worth a look. Certainly at my school we were shown the BBC versions of whatever play we were studying at the time. Although some, like 'King Lear', have times similar to the sections on the heath which drag, the relationships between the characters and their warped intentions are cleverly but boldly outlined. The viewer is never at a loss... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Great story, great performances
Disadvantages: none!

...This is a brilliant film with all the right components for a perfect romantic comedy with a bit of Shakespeare thrown in for good measure! The story is set around the writing of the Shakespeare's play, Romeo and Juliet. It uses genuinely laugh out loud moments and also moments that will bring a tear to your eye to tell the story of how young Will meets Viola and makes her his muse for the famous play. The cast is filled with stars and the sets, costumes and music are outstanding. You don't have to be a lover of Shakespeare to enjoy this film, in fact it may very well turn you in to one. This film is a gem and deserves all the praise it gets.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: This is a truly rumbustious treatment of Shakespearian themes. It can be taken on many levels. Webster makes an appearance as a little boy who loves to interfere and is entranced with suffering.
Disadvantages: Not really any.

...This colourful costume drama is well-plotted and an excellent view. The locations are stunning and the reality of the London scenes with the mud and noise is quite breathtaking. The atmosphere of the theatrical settings is also stunning. The story begins with Shakespeare experiencing writer's block and having to visit a therapist, played by Anthony Scher. This is a ribald, witty scene which makes you laugh out loud. The plot thickens when Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe are confused and Shakespeare pretends to be Marlowe with what appear to be devastating consequences. A lovely twist on girls not being allowed to play is brought about when Gwynneth Paltrowe pretends to be a boy in order to audition for the part of Romeo. The plot of Romeo and Juliet is echoed in the screenplay and the developing drama is studded with fights... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful