Out Takes

6 Aug 2016

Shakespeare on Film

Arts, TV & Film

As Shakespeare enthusiasts around the world celebrate 400 years since the bard’s passing, we look at some of the most stirring queer films to re-imagine his timeless work. There’s a lot to choose from. Over 1000 films have reimagined the bard’s work since his passing: think kitsch 90s farces like 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU, mumblecore gay musicals like WERE THE WORLD MINE, and subtly queer period piece’s like Jarman’s THE TEMPEST.

To better understand why film makers return time and again to Shakespeare’s formidable work, we speak with Mark Nicholls, senior lecturer in Screen and Cultural studies at Melbourne University. We also speak with Kristy Matheson, curator of ACMI’s SHAKESPEARE ON FILM showcase, to look at how Shakespeare’s work has leant itself to filmic reinterpretation and queer re-envisagement.

Essential viewing: Romeo and Juliet (1996, Dir. Baz Luhrmann)

Hungry for more: The Angelic Conversation (1985, Dir. Derek Jarman)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 49:59 — 22.9MB)

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