Zeffirelli's version of Shakespeare's tragic love story is practically impossible to equal. It is true that as far as the script and the story are concerned, other versions may be more faithful, but as far as acting, feeling, set design, costumes, location filming and music are concerned it is another matter. I first saw this movie when I was about 10 and it didn't really impress me - I was young then and liked happy endings. By the age of 18 I had to lay my hands on it because I wanted to see it badly. When I finally sat through it, I was really satisfied. It nearly made me cry. Sadly as far as literate accuracy it leaves much to be desired, but when it comes to entertainment it has to be Pauline Keel to criticise it. In fact hers is just about the only negative review I ever found of this film (well after all she criticises ALL the movies). So the last thing to say is that this is an excellent movie to watch again and again, each time feeling sorry for the unfortunate lovers and letting yourself be enchanted by the haunting "Juliet's Love".
Review of Romeo and Juliet
Romeo and Juliet
(1968)
The greatest love story of all time in the best movie version
23 October 1998