The Tragedy Of Macbeth (2021) Dir: Joel Coen
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Joel Coen's A24-produced adaptation of one of William Shakespeare's greatest plays has been one I have hoped to watch from the moment it came out. It looked like a beautiful and well-formed portrayal of the iconic stageplay, plus it had a phenomenal cast. As it was, I was very excited to finally watch the film.
I was captivated by the stark boldness of the setting and lighting. The set design utilised a theatre-like simplicity, which was both visually unique and drew focus to the cast. The lighting too, emulated that of a stageplay, and employed shadows masterfully to form striking visuals.
For those unaware, the story of Macbeth is indeed tragic, as the film's name quite plainly suggests. It's a classic story of greed, guilt and morality, which Coen translated to the screen in marvellous and compelling fashion. It's worth saying, but I loved that the dialogue was faithful to the stageplay. It was so satisfying to witness the Shakespearean dialogue, spoken by some of cinema's most talented actors.
Denzel Washington commanded the screen with poise, grace and a determined commitment. He was excellent. It was impossible to look away as he masterfully delivered some of Shakespeare's most acclaimed monologues. I was thrilled to see the energy and passion that Washington invested into the role.
Frances McDormand was another to give an utterly mesmerising performance. She flooded her role with emotion and personality, particularly in her facial expressions. I was so impressed with everything she did. Her work with Washington was hugely engaging and full of chemistry.
Of the talented supporting cast members, the most notable performances were provided by Corey Hawkins, Alex Hassell and Kathryn Hunter. Hawkins, although he was on-screen very little, left a big impression on me, while Hassell executed his dialogue very convincingly. Hunter played her characters very well, although, I must say, their presentation was perhaps the only thing I wasn't so keen on.
The film also sees some very strong, but far less substantial, performances from members of the supporting cast, including those of Brendan Gleeson, Harry Melling, Ralph Ineson, Bertie Carvel and Miles Anderson. I was especially fond of the displays from Gleeson and Ineson.
Overall, I found this to be a very compelling adaptation, which was done in a unique and stimulating way, and was headlined by some topnotch acting displays. The film was just about everything I hoped it would be; a stunning and faithful adaptation of one of the great plays of history.
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