Fair is foul, and foul is fair, and Macbeth is back in theaters again. This Shakespearean play has been adapted, readapted, and brought to the silver screen countless times. And now, The Tragedy of Macbeth brings it back again for fans. But it’s not a fresh take on the play, instead, it’s what fans love about it – the dark and murderous tale brought to the screen almost exactly as it was written.
Shot in black and white and a 4:3 format, The Tragedy of Macbeth brings the story of the Scottish King to the screen. One of murder, and filled with countless phrases that are still part of modern culture. And while the movie doesn’t seem to change much from the original script – its unique way of shooting makes it feel like you’re seeing it on stage rather than in a movie theater. It’s this weird blend of classical theater, mixed with modern and austere architecture that is reminiscent of a play set – and stage direction that it’s almost doesn’t feel like a movie at all.
But one thing the movie format allows filmmakers to do with Macbeth over stage performances – playing with light and some effects you wouldn’t be able to do in real-time. From ominous lighting paving the path for Macbeth down long hallways to the witches transforming into crows and flying off. The movie is simple, elegant, and uses effects so well that they seem to blend right with the rest of the film.
Star power is big in The Tragedy of Macbeth with Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand taking the lead as the murderous and ambitious couple. And both use their years of acting prowess to lead you through the journey of murder and their own undoing.
While the movie may not have a huge audience, it is a great way for fans of the play to check out this new adaptation. It’s a modern adaptation that left the content intact. The feel of a play filled with iambic pentameter, but with the crisp beauty of modern film. The Tragedy of Macbeth will be in theaters on Christmas Day.
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About The Tragedy of Macbeth:
Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand star in Joel Coen’s bold and fierce adaptation; a tale of murder, madness ambition, and wrathful cunning.
