Shakespeare’s most renowned plays, such as Romeo & Juliet, Hamlet, and Macbeth, have been frequently adapted into films, while his lesser-known plays remain relatively unknown. However, these underrated works offer a rich world of stories and characters, awaiting cinematic revival. This article delves into some of Shakespeare’s lesser-known plays, examining their film adaptations and what makes them worth watching.
One such play is Titus Andronicus, a Roman tragedy that tells the story of General Titus and his quest for revenge. The 1999 film adaptation, simply titled Titus, boasts impressive performances from Anthony Hopkins and Jessica Lange, and is a stylish, ferocious, and well-paced film that deserves more attention.
Another notable adaptation is Kenneth Branagh’s Henry V, which takes a historical approach to the play and features Branagh in the titular role. This 1989 film is an exciting and largely faithful adaptation of the play, condensing a complex story into a remarkably digestible 137-minute movie.
Orson Welles’s Chimes at Midnight, adapted from five of Shakespeare’s plays, is a unique and fascinating adaptation that showcases the character of Sir John Falstaff. This 1966 film is a standout in Welles’s Shakespearean canon, and its pacing and tone are remarkably well-balanced.
Ralph Fiennes’s Coriolanus, set in modern times, takes a fresh approach to the play, changing the historical setting and banishing the titular character from Rome. This 2011 film is a gripping and intense adaptation that showcases Fiennes’s talent as a director and actor.
A Still From Akira Kurosawa’s Ran (Photo: Ran)
Ian McKellen’s Richard III, set in 1930s Britain, is another radical departure from the original play, condensing a complex story into a 104-minute film. This 1995 adaptation is a notable example of Shakespeare’s timelessness, as the themes and plot remain engaging despite the unfamiliar setting.
Much Ado About Nothing, one of Shakespeare’s comedies, takes a modern setting, black and white cinematography, and a condensed narrative to create a breezy and enjoyable adaptation. This 2012 film is a charming and lighthearted take on the play, featuring a talented cast and a generally easygoing atmosphere.
Akira Kurosawa’s Ran, an adaptation of King Lear, sets the story in 16th-century Japan, and is a beautiful and excellently acted film. This 1985 adaptation is a testament to Kurosawa’s skill as a director, as he takes a familiar story and transforms it into a unique and compelling work.
Julius Caesar, a historical play about the assassination of Julius Caesar, features Marlon Brando in one of his early lead roles and is a surprisingly complete adaptation despite its relatively brief runtime. This 1953 film is a notable example of Shakespeare’s work being brought to life on the big screen.
My Own Private Idaho, a modern adaptation that blends elements from multiple Shakespearean plays, features strong performances from River Phoenix and Keanu Reeves and is a genuinely unique film-watching experience.
For those who may not be familiar with these lesser-known Shakespeare plays, there’s Forbidden Planet, a 1956 science fiction film that serves as a loose adaptation of The Tempest. While the setting is far removed from the original play, the story shares similarities with Shakespeare’s work, making it a notable example of the playwright’s influence on cinema.
These lesser-known Shakespeare plays offer a wealth of creative opportunities for filmmakers, and their film adaptations showcase the versatility and timelessness of Shakespeare’s work. Whether you’re a fan of tragedy, comedy, or history, there’s a Shakespeare film adaptation out there waiting to be discovered.
