6/10
Leads too old
21 September 2008
The retelling of this Shakespeare classic is fine, and the acting performances solid. But I found the 2 leads a little hard to believe because of their ages. While the "suspension of disbelief" is a necessary element for virtually all film, having the 36 year old Norma Shearer and 43 year old Leslie Howard was too much. Romeo and Juliet are supposed to be teenagers!!! Edna Mae Oliver, on the other hand, is perfect as the nurse. In regards to other film productions of R & J. There is no question the Franco Zefferelli version is the best. With a perfect cast of 2 actual teenagers in the lead roles. I recommend everyone to see this version. As a side note, avoid the 1996 DiCaprio/Danes version at all cost. What a waste of Shakespears amazing words.
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