Shadows on the Wall | Juliet & Romeo

Juliet & Romeo

dir-scr Timothy Scott Bogart
prd Timothy Scott Bogart, Jessica Martins, Chris Torto, Bradley Bogart, Andrea Iervolino
with Clara Rugaard, Jamie Ward, Derek Jacobi, Jason Isaacs, Rebel Wilson, Rupert Everett, Tayla Parx, Dan Fogler, Nicholas Podany, Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Rupert Graves, Martina Ortiz Luis
release US 9.May.25,
UK 11.Jun.25
25/Italy 2h02

Is it streaming?

Lushly designed, this musical adaptation of Shakespeare's classic tragedy features a series of pop songs performed by a beautiful cast with expressive choreography. Filmmaker Timothy Scott Bogart also adapts the dialog for modern-day ears, giving the film a lively kick of energy without changing things too much. The approach is somewhat loose, casually mixing romance, comedy, music and violence. It's an enjoyable, simplified take on the iconic romance.

In early 16th century Verona, the Capulet and Montague families have a long-held bitter rivalry. Then Juliet (Rugaard) meets Romeo (Ward), and both are smitten, unaware that they're from opposite factions. When they discover this, they're too in love to care. Juliet's parents (Wilson and Everett) throw a masked ball for her, while Romeo's adopted brother Mercutio (Podany) tries to talk sense into him, warning him not to abandon his father (Isaacs). The local priest (Jacobi) is dubious, but secretly marries them. And the apothecary (Fogler) concocts an ill-fated way to sidestep the escalating trouble.

As signposted in the title, Juliet has more agency this time around, taking charge in key moments. Glorious rich-hued costumes, bold lighting and colour-drenched sets are fun to look at, even if everything looks suspiciously new. Makeup and hair are equally immaculate. And with the heightened youthful melodrama in the hummable songs, this sometimes feels like an Elizabethan episode of High School Musical. But it's hugely watchable, and a thrilling extended chase sequence gets the pulse racing, as does the ramped-up finale.

Rugaard and Ward are adorable, falling head over heels as they proclaim their love for each other in musical numbers then strain against their fate. They're surrounded by terrific actors and singers who add to the energetic pace and big emotions in a number of key roles, including Podany and Walsh-Peelo (as Tybalt). And veterans like Jacobi, Isaacs and Graves (as the prince) add some gritty gravitas as the situation heats up.

This young couple refuses to let their family names limit them. The fights sparked by this feud play out with a vicious intensity. Of course we all know the turns this story takes, both hopeful and wrenchingly sad, and the film doesn't shy away from these things, leaning into the feelings as expressed through music. This may feel a bit corny for viewers who know the play, but other audiences should find plenty to resonate with. And the themes remain vivid, even with some tinkering with the plot.

themes, language, violence 9.Jun.25

R E A D E R R E V I E W S

Still waiting for your comments ... don't be shy.