The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021) - SPOILER-FREE Review
/
Directed by: Joel Coen
Written by: Joel Coen
Starring: Denzel Washington, Frances McDormand, Bertie Carvel, Alex Hassell, Corey Hawkins, Harry Melling, Brendan Gleeson
Runtime: 105 min
Synopsis: Power-hungry Macbeth (Denzel Washington) sets his sights on the Scottish throne after receiving a prophecy from three witches.
Editor's Note: Original review was written for Filmhounds Magazine. Full article can be found below.
REVIEW SUMMARY
The Tragedy of Macbeth is a mesmerizing technical masterpiece that could have benefited from a distinct take on the well-known Shakespearean tale. Denzel Washington demonstrates his insane talent, as does Frances McDormand, but the former clearly stands out in a more energetic, captivating performance, powering through intricate, long monologues, which may very well result in yet another successful awards season. Joel Coen offers his bold direction to an unsurprising, too familiar narrative, but the rest of the technical crew transforms a streaming flick into an authentic cinematic experience. With some of the most exquisite cinematography of the century, Bruno Delbonnel staggeringly elevates every other filmmaking component (sound, costumes, sets, production design), making this a must-watch movie, whether at home or, better yet, at the theater.
