Rent Romeo and Juliet (1968)

Best version. - Romeo and Juliet review by Steve

The definitive film version of William Shakespeare's immortal tragedy of doomed young lovers from feuding aristocratic families in Renaissance Verona. It's an abridged adaptation, but faithful in spirit. There is gorgeous set design, and location photography around Tuscany. It all looks far too pristine to be realistic, but still magnificent.

The film is most famous for casting actors closer to the age of the characters in the play than was usual. Juliet is 13 in the text, and Olivia Hussey was 16 during production. Leonard Whiting, playing Romeo, was 17. And while their acting is quite raw- for which director Franco Zeffirelli must take some responsibility- this production is made extraordinary by their performances.

The enchantment of their romantic scenes is thrilling and inspiring, particularly their meeting at the Capulet's masked ball, and of course, the balcony scene. While the subplots involving long scenes of bawdy crosstalk can get tiresome, there is always magic when this Romeo and Juliet are on screen together, accompanied by the lovely, romantic score.

Those indifferent to Shakespeare's poetic verse are unlikely to enjoy this, because although the speeches are edited, there's still plenty of talk. The long sword fighting scenes are well choreographed, though not for everyone. But there is also spectacle, with Oscars for cinematography and costume design. Most of all, it's Leonard and Olivia who breath new life into their 400 year old infatuation.