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The Tragedy of Macbeth Review

By David Kempler

Shakespeare Shines

It's fair to say that I'm not a Shakespeare freak. No doubt that can be traced to having to read it as a little kid and wondering why everyone talked so funny. As I got older I at least learned to appreciate it, but I still never yearned to seek it out.

My favorite Shakespearean cinematic experience was Roman Polanski's "Macbeth", his first film after the Charles Manson murders. The financing came from Hugh Hefner. I loved it.

Joel Coen, working without brother Ethan, has brought his take on Macbeth and he slams it out of the park. Shot in black-and white and absolutely without any frills, "The Tragedy of Macbeth" is desolate and visually stunning, creating an absolutely perfect atmosphere of endless grayness.

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The feel is set in the opening shot where we are looking up at three birds circling in the sky - or at least we think we are. As the clouds part we are above the three circling birds. Below them, in the sand, is a path of footprints that we learn are mixed with blood.

The birds morph into three witches, all played by Kathryn Hunter. She only appears in one more scene so I imagine she is ineligible for a supporting actress nomination, but I'd have no issue with that happening. She plays her part beautifully and is physically striking, in an uncomfortable way.

The two leads are Denzel Washington as Macbeth and Frances McDormand as his wife, Lady Macbeth. Both are outstanding, especially Washington who is virtually guaranteed a nomination for his performance.

Everything clicks in Coen's adaptation of the Shakespearean classic. It's enough to get me to crack open some more Shakespeare, which is pretty amazing.

What did you think?

Movie title The Tragedy of Macbeth
Release year 2021
MPAA Rating R
Our rating
Summary Joel Coen's take on Shakespeare is worthy of Shakespeare.
View all articles by David Kempler
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