MovieChat Forums > The Merchant of Venice (2005) Discussion > A bizarre concoction

A bizarre concoction

posted 14 years ago by zxcv-9
1 reply | jump to latest

This film features two storylines contrasting completely in tone, and at least four styles of acting.

The tragic story of Shylock is mixed up with the light-hearted comedy romp involving the rings. Huh? It makes me wonder precisely what Shakespeare intended.

Also, Jeremy Irons acts in a naturalistic style, Joseph Fiennes in the modern romantic style, Al Pacino in a hammy, method style; and Lynn Collins in a self-consciously Shakespearean style.

What a mess.

[–] thornsthorns 11 years ago

true.

Not a well done film to be honest. It had no clue what it was trying to be, a comedy, a tragedy, a romantic melodrama...and just get jumping back and forth.

But i still enjoyed it.