The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021) - Review

Joel Coen’s The Tragedy of Macbeth is one of the best Shakespeare adaptations I’ve seen. My problem with the original play is that Macbeth himself is a passive character, but this adaptation fixes that for me. The titular tragedy of Macbeth comes from uncageing the animal that is Macbeth’s thirst for power rather than him being a puppet for other’s desires for power. Denzel delivers an amazing performance as Macbeth, giving the gravitas and theatricality that matches the film visuals. The film uses a lot of classical visual effect and production design techniques that make the film feel like a stage play itself, giving a unique aesthetic to the well-adapted tale of Macbeth. If you aren’t put off by Shakespearean dialogue or changes from the original text, this film is great adaptation of the classic play that stands on its own visually.