Romeo and Juliet: Comparative Text Response Essay

Romeo and Juliet: Comparative Text Response Essay

Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet” has been read for many centuries. There is a large number of variations and spin offs from Shakespeare’s original. Some have few variations while others are quite different. A fairly unique interpretation by Baz Luhrman follows Shakespeare’s original story line almost exactly. What makes it unique is the way Luhrman portrays the plot through the setting, characters and minor plot changes.

The setting is the biggest difference of the two versions. Shakespeare’s was set in an Italian city called Verona (with a small inclusion of a neighbouring city Mantua), in the 15th century. Luhrman’s is set in a fictional modernised city, Verona Beach. Luhrman’s main change to Williams play is the time his movie is set in. From a 15th century play to a 20th century film, 500 years causes more than a few notable changes. This fact actually causes most of Luhrman’s other key changes. Mantua has changed from the neighbouring Italian city to a dusty, deserted area with a small number of run down caravan trailers. The opening fight scene has been changed, originally taking place in Verona’s market square to a generic petrol station. The most considerable change though behind the time difference is Luhrman’s balcony scene. Shakespeare’s balcony scene was held solely on Juliet’s balcony. Luhrman’s version begins off on the balcony where Romeo mistakes the Nurse for Juliet. Disappointed he jumps down just as Juliet walks outside. Romeo stays hidden for a few moments until he reveals himself. Juliet is startled and they both fall in the pool beside them. This is where they exchange their vows of love and organise their marriage for the following day.  Luhrman most likely changed this to add a more dramatic and romantic feel to his movie. Most setting changes only differentiate because of the time difference, with a few changes Luhrman has added to give his movie more effect.                              

Another area of change is the characters again to fit into the time setting. For example clothes, possession and props have all changed. Modern clothes are worn, they own cars instead of horses and guns have replaced swords. The opening scene where the fight breaks out between the Montague and Capulet servants has held its spot in the film. The Montague servants have changed although they retain minor roles their group are now known as the “Montague boys”. The change most likely due once again to the time frame and servants aren’t socially acceptable anymore. Captain Prince is no longer Prince of Verona but is now police Captain of Verona beach, who seemingly has the last name Prince. Luhrman must have felt it necessary to change his character. Police Captain was an obvious choice as he still has the power to banish Romeo and fits the time frame better. Not many serious character changes were made but subtle changes were to reinforce the modern feel of the movie.