Theatre is an art form that many have trouble with. It’s not for everyone, even though the TV and films people have seen their entire lives would likely not have even happened without the origins of the stage. This Thursday is for those who lack the interest or ability to sit in on a live performance. The Tragedy of Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most notable works, having been staged thousands of times and adapted for the screen. Joel Coen’s version of the Scottish play will now cement its place in history as a film that might as well still be considered ‘theatre’.
The Tragedy of Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most notable works, having been staged thousands of times and adapted for the screen.
What has Coen done differently from everyone else to stand out? Casting one of the most prominent black actors as Macbeth for a start. Denzel Washington, one of the most in demand talents in the world, returns to his roots as a stage actor by taking on the testing text that is Shakespeare. As Macbeth, his path is the same as it’s always been. He, a soldier of the Scottish army, is prophesied to become king by a group of witches. Spurred on by his wife Lady Macbeth, he takes matters into his own hands to insure his fate, soon becoming corrupted by his thirst for power and his need to retain the thrown.
Yes this is a film, but it’s also theatre. The entire project was shot on a sound stage only being aided by Shakespeare original writing, period appropriate costumes, and built in sets. Coen also made the bold choice of shooting the movie in black and white, giving a classic tinge but with a modernized approach. Denzel does what Denzel does. When given any opportunity, with any script whether weak or strong, he burns up the screen or stage and he does just that here. He understands the script, which is key in performing Shakespeare, and as a result his intent becomes clear with each line he speaks. Frances McDormand, taking the set as Lady Macbeth, is everything the crucial role requires and more. She’s able to display Lady Macbeth’s disturbing mission with subtlety, disregarding any desire to perform too over the top and with the upmost regard to her co-star. Shakespeare of course gets most of the credit, because to this day no one else can seem to write the way he has. His genius only continues to become more solidified with each new adaptation, be it on stage or on screen.
Of those who have little appetite for traditional theatre, this should be a refreshing treat. After all, the pros are that there’s no need to get dressed up or to leave the house. Coen’s The Tragedy of Macbeth can be streamed from any laptop, home television, or even a smart phone. The cons are that the language will be challenging, and the viewing experience will require patience, but as with all Shakespeare’s plays, that is just never going to change. Take a look at The Tragedy of Macbeth on Apple TV+.
