Reviews

As a literary student I always considered Macbeth as one of the strongest plays to be found among the Shakespearean tragedies. After reading the play in class and watching Kenneth Branagh 's magnificent and breath-taking performance as Macbeth in National Theatre Live : Macbeth afterwards--which still stands as the best after seeing this--I realized how symbolically and psychologically intriguing and strong Macbeth was as a Shakespearean tragedy. The story of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth is unique and the play is a literary masterpiece with heavy symbolism. Of the movie, I should initially tell you that it is not your typical history-adventure movie where you get to see a lot of sword- action and yet it is charming enough to take you away with great visuals of Scotland alongside the tragic story of Macbeth. The film uses the original dialogues from the play which made it tons better in my eyes. The synergy between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth is masterfully reflected on the screen. I must say that I am particularly amazed by Marion Cotillard's performance as Lady Macbeth; she was simply perfect. Overall, a visually stunning adaptation for those who loves the play. See this if you like the play as you cannot possibly regret it!

After all, ''Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage And then is heard no more. It is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury Signifying nothing''

To begin with, one should emphasize how great the cinematography was in this movie. Filled with the beautiful imagery of the Alps and an isolated town covered in snow along with the unique Western-Alp type of harsh reality, it truly amazes and captivates the viewer by the heart. The plot was smooth and gripping. Sam Riley, with all his western-style cowboy boots and spurs, was absolutely great in the movie, and he did his best at delivering a very solid performance of a very 'cool' stranger. For me he was a bit too cool, his character could surely be more interactive and talkative but nevertheless it was indubitably more than satisfying. He says that not talking to much, owing to the fact that his German is not that perfect, adds to the coolness of his Eastwood type of cowboy. I should say that some of the songs that are chosen for certain parts of the movie made movie look a bit strange for an Western-Alp flick, if such genre exists. Overall it was beautiful and thus definitely worth watching. If you are looking for something unique, just see this movie, you won't be disappointed.