The Tempest
Inspired by Shakespeare's play, a supernatural-thriller directed by Julie Taymor (Across the Universe, Frida). All-star cast includes Helen Mirren, Russell Brand, Alfred Molina, Djimon Hounsou and Chris Cooper.
In this version, Prospero has been feminised to Prospera (Mirren), whose journey spirals through vengeance to forgiveness as she reigns over a magical island, cares for her young daughter, Miranda (Felicity Jones), and unleashes her powers against shipwrecked enemies.
2010Rating: M, Infrequent coarse language110 minsUSA
DramaFantasyThriller
- Director:
- Julie Taymor ('Across the Universe', 'Frida', 'Titus')
- Writer:
- Julie Taymor
- Cast:
- Helen MirrenRussell BrandAlfred MolinaChris CooperAlan CummingDjimon HounsouDavid StrathairnBen WhishawFelicity JonesTom Conti
The Tempest / Reviews
Total Film
A fitfully engaging Tempest that could have used as much intellectual rigour as it boasts shock tactics and effects.
Full reviewThe New York Times
Ms. Taymor's overscaled sense of stage spectacle can be impressive and effective, even moving, but her three-dimensional, high-volume compositions translate awkwardly into the cosmos of cinema, which turns her pageantry into mummery and the physical exuberance she likes to draw from performers into mugging.
Full review
Roger Ebert
She (Taymor) doesn't capture Shakespeare's tone (or his meaning, I believe), but she certainly has boldness in her reinvention.
Full review
Hollywood Reporter
Far less daring than her 1999 "Titus," which took an electrifying, stylized approach of a lesser-known play, The Tempest in comparison looks disappointingly middle-of-the-road.
Full review
Empire Magazine
Taymor's winningly cast, imaginative take on Shakespeare passes the test of bringing the Bard to film. It may also be the only PG Disney film to contain the word "F---".
Full review
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