The Tragedy of Macbeth

The Tragedy of Macbeth

Macbeth, the Thane of Glamis, receives a prophecy from a trio of witches that one day he will become King of Scotland. Consumed by ambition and spurred to action by his wife, Macbeth murders his king and takes the throne for himself.

  • Released: 2021-12-25
  • Runtime: 105 minutes
  • Genre: Drama, Thrillers, War
  • Stars: Denzel Washington, Frances McDormand, Brendan Gleeson, Corey Hawkins, Moses Ingram, Harry Melling, Ralph Ineson, Alex Hassell, Brian Thompson, Sean Patrick Thomas, Miles Anderson, Max Baker, James Udom, Ethan Hutchison, Jacob McCarthy, Matt Helm, Scott Subiono, Lucas Barker, Nancy Daly, Robert Gilbert, Richard Short, Kathryn Hunter, T.K. Weaver, Kayden Alexander Koshelev, Wayne T. Carr, Edward Headington, Tim Oakes, Peter Janov, Madison Randolph, Phil DiGennaro, Bertie Carvel, Stephen Root, Jefferson Mays, Olivia Washington, Susan James Berger, Ledger Fuller
  • Director: Joel Coen
 Comments
  • ddony-08622 - 12 April 2024
    This film brilliantly pays homage to the work of William Shakespeare
    The Tragedy of Macbeth brilliantly brings together cinema's greatest actor and actress in a breathtaking adaptation of the work of William Shakespeare.

    The choice of black and white gives the film a timeless atmosphere, plunging viewers into the heart of this ancient story of the quest for power.

    Frances McDormand brilliantly embodies the role of Lady Macbeth, once again demonstrating her undeniable talent, although her fame among young audiences is not as great as it deserves, despite her numerous awards.

    As for Denzel Washington in the role of Macbeth, his performance is simply masterful. He once again proves his ability to play a variety of roles, and his lack of an Oscar for this role is a disappointment. His choice of role demonstrates his versatility and undeniable talent.

    The ensemble performance of the actors and actresses, as well as the staging, create a captivating theatrical atmosphere which truly transports the spectator to the stage.

    Although the complexity of the plot may make the film difficult to follow for some, one need not be familiar with Shakespeare's original work to appreciate this cinematic masterpiece. Despite its dated aesthetic, the fast pace of the story demands sustained attention, but the experience is well worth it.
  • Brother_Maynards_Brother - 18 May 2023
    Sublime cinematography.
    I found this big screen adaptation of The Scottish Play to be quite mesmerizing. I am a sucker for superior cinematography (LOVE the Coen's "Handsome" flicks) and my, oh, my; does said attribute ever exist in this effort. It's just a gorgeous work to behold. Early on in the film, I recognized that Director Joel and DP Bruno must have decided on "The Passion of Joan of Arc" as being an example of the visual style they wished to portray. Truly a wise and learned choice.

    Most of the scenes feel as if they were captured on a theater stage due to the smaller set sizes, the minimalism/starkness of the sets and the economy of cast motions.

    The cast is quite accomplished and performed their roles with the expected skill and grace. I really liked Denzel as MB. He looked genuinely haggard (his facial stubble was perfect for helping to generate this perception). He unleashed the challenging prose with true aplomb - the mark of an absolute pro. Stellar character actor Stephen Root had an amusing short appearance. Harry Melling (Dudley from the Harry Potter flicks) has grown exceptionally well as an actor - he was absolutely natural and convincing as Malcolm. Even the chap that played the Terminator-like Alien Bounty Hunter in the X-Files TV series, Brian Thompson, made a brief appearance. Once again, I found every player to be quite good. The most distinguished work out of all the superb players belonged to Kathryn Hunter, who portrayed the Witches (and an elderly gent). She was superb. I was transfixed during each of her appearances. Truly brilliant work.

    Undoubtedly, experts in this play of the Bard's will have issues with aspects of this adaptation, and I'm sure said qualms are valid. I am bereft of even a modicum of Shakespearean knowledge. Fortunately, my ignorance allowed me to thoroughly enjoy this effort sans adaptation scrutiny.

    I offer a hearty HUZZAH! To the entire cast and crew. Very well done.

    Kurosawa's "Throne of Blood" has been my go-to MB film adaptation for decades. It will now have to share that role with this work.

    Qapla'!