After reading Macbeth Act two scene two we watched two productions of Macbeth Essay Example
After reading Macbeth Act two scene two we watched two productions of Macbeth Essay Example

After reading Macbeth Act two scene two we watched two productions of Macbeth Essay Example

Available Only on StudyHippo
  • Pages: 2 (429 words)
  • Published: January 8, 2018
  • Type: Analysis
View Entire Sample
Text preview

In my opinion, Roman Polanski's version of Macbeth was disappointing due to the exclusion of original lines and depictions of killings that were contrary to Shakespeare's intended vision. Conversely, the Royal Shakespeare Company produced a much better rendition by adhering strictly to the script.

Polanski chose to emphasize sensationalism in his film, rather than exploring the negative impact of guilt. The movie prioritizes gore, horror, and suspense to attract modern viewers. Rather than depicting a distinctive murder, it showcases a typical event found in many present-day films. Symbolic elements are also utilized, including the imagery of a falling crown when Macbeth commits regicide.

The king has been assassinated and dethroned. In Macbeth's quote, he ponders if even the vast ocean can cleanse the blood stains on his hands that turn a bucket of water red, resembling the sea turning r

...

ed on screen.

After washing his hands, Macbeth notices the rope for the bucket, resembling a noose for hanging, foreshadowing his eventual punishment for his evil act. Lady Macbeth appears weak with her frail form and feeble voice, lacking the strength I expected. The film becomes too distracting with constant running about. A better rendition could have been achieved if there was a focus on either traditional or modern themes, instead of a confusing mixture. In comparison, the Royal Shakespeare production showcased Macbeth's guilt and the mental turmoil caused by his crime. The production followed Shakespeare's intention by omitting the murder scene.

Ian McKellen's portrayal of Macbeth was impressive as he displayed trembling, perspiration and mental agony. It left one wondering about the extent of the murder that destroyed him. Judi Dench played Lady Macbeth very well, emphasizing her

View entire sample
Join StudyHippo to see entire essay

strength and determination which was not evident in the other production. She confidently believed in the success of her plans but when things went wrong, she had to deceive Macbeth, her tone revealing her uncertainty "how easy is it then". The performance mainly features close-ups of their faces, conveying their emotions effectively. The black and white production presents a better depiction of the red sea stained with blood as it glimmers on the screen like dark water.

The screen fills with a glinting and moving image, swelling up and down like the sea, representing Macbeth's imagination of a sea of blood on his hands. This contrasts with the other production in which Macbeth only discussed the sea of blood. The impactful portrayal in this version highlights the difficulty and disturbing impact of murder on Macbeth, portraying him as a quivering wreck consumed by obsession.

Get an explanation on any task
Get unstuck with the help of our AI assistant in seconds
New