Forthcoming Lectures and Projects
2022
JULIET ON FILM SERIES
22 September 2022, at 19:00 GMT
Juliet on Film: 1936
by Dr Anthony Quinn
Chaired by Dr Rossella M. Riccobono
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Abstract
MGM’s 1936 version of Romeo and Juliet was the first sound version in the western world. The introduction of sound meant a new dimension in presenting Shakespeare had been reached. As the New York Times stated on its release, ‘there is no precedent for this version’. The 1936 Romeo and Juliet remains, to this day, the only film version to feature a cast of top movie stars in the leading and supporting roles. It received a worldwide release, was praised by the critics, and was nominated for four Oscars. But how successful was it? How faithfully did the play translate into the new medium of film? And what was its legacy? How did it influence the versions that followed and how we view the play today? Join Dr Anthony Quinn for a detailed talk on the first contemporary film adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s greatest and most important tragedies.
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Zoom Meeting: 873 5010 9623
To register your interest and attendance and to obtain the Zoom meeting passcode write to: cinema@pietrisco.net
or follow this Eventbrite link:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/juliet-on-film-1936-tickets-399712449697.
JULIET ON FILM series
19 May 2022, 19:00 GMT
Juliet on Film:
1916-1996
by Dr Anthony Quinn
Chaired by Dr Rossella M. Riccobono
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Abstract:
Between 1936 and 1996, there were four major film versions of Romeo and Juliet. George Cukor’s 1936 Hollywood production, with Norma Shearer, was the first ‘talkie’ version. Renato Castellani’s Anglo Italian neo-realist 1954 adaptation featured an untried Susan Shentall. Franco Zeffirelli’s sweeping 1968 production with Olivia Hussey was a worldwide success and is still revered by many as being the authoritative film experience of the play. Baz Luhrmann’s1996 version with Claire Danes was initially decried as an affront to Shakespeare and the director accused of sacrificing text for stylised content. These films have formed how we think of Juliet today.
This talk will offer a summary examination of these films but will also serve as an introduction to four further talks that will offer a comprehensive study of each individual version and how, collectively, they have influenced how we evaluate the role of Juliet in Shakespeare’s canon and on film.
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Zoom meeting ID: 879 7683 5919
Email cinema@pietrisco.net for the passcode
