A Midsummer Night's Dream
1968, Filmways et al
This particular film version of Shakespeare's popular comedy (there have been nine, so far) was directed by Peter Hall, and was almost universally panned. Funny... I rather enjoyed it. Yes, certain aspects of it are bewildering: the lead actresses frolic about in miniskirts and flowered blouses; the play's Athenian castle is a stately British manor; and so on. Honestly, it all makes for a surreal experience that only enhances the play's silly shenanigans. Oh, it does drag a bit here and there—it is, after all, a faithful presentation of the prose, and we all know the Bard can get quite wordy. But even if you find that bothersome, then perhaps you might still be able to appreciate the bevvy of young rockstar talent it features: Derek Godfrey, Diana Rigg, Helen Mirren, David Warner, Ian Richardson, Judi Dench (who shows up very nearly nude), Ian Holm... the list goes on. Come on in—the water's fine!
DKS 3/30/22
GRUMPY OLD FART-O-METER® Rating:
