I fell in love with the works of William Shakespeare when I was twelve years old. I had a friend who would give me reading lists every week and we would discuss the books we'd read at the end of the week. One week Hamlet was on that list and the play was absolutely mesmerizing to me. I can't say I understood all of the language at the time but I knew the basic gist of what was going on.
I mention this, and I wanted to write about this movie, because it's a great beginning step for those that feel that Shakespeare is tough to understand. My mother was one of these. She absolutely refused to read it or see it (even the Mel Gibson version, whom she loves, and which I thought stunk). She said she couldn't understand the language and that it was frustrating for her. I suggest that seeing this movie is one of the best introduction to Shakespeare's work for those who feel lost when looking over all of those "tis...thou art..." etc.
I admit that Al Pacino can be a real ham of an actor, and that shines through in this film as well. He begins with historical narrative that preceeds the play so that it may be put into a decent context. He takes what he's heard are tough passages through the course of Richard III, explaining in detail how these things further the plot of the play.
And as documentaries are normally considered to be non-entertaining films, Pacino throws in some humor as well as other footage to add a sense of variety to the subject. Different actors playing the same role, being caught shooting a film on the streets of New York without a permit, and adding his own dramatic touches to the work in different environments.
The result is an entertaining and informative look at one of the greatest playwrights of the century. I will admit that at times watching this film may feel condescending to some, especially those that already have a good handle on Shakespeare or get easily defensive when they are being taught something new. However, I found it to be a good introduction to those I know whom normally shy of reading Shakespeare, a writer who still has a profound impact on creative work.
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