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As anticipation builds for the release of 28 Years Later, attention turns to the cast, particularly actor Ralph Fiennes, a prominent figure in the film. Fiennes is widely recognized for his performances in acclaimed films such as The Grand Budapest Hotel and Schindler’s List, but he has also ventured into directing. His craftsmanship in this domain can be seen in his adaptation of Shakespeare’s works, having recently starred in a stage rendition of Macbeth alongside fellow actor Gerard Butler in a significant cinematic interpretation of Coriolanus.
Despite its ambitious nature, Fiennes’s directorial debut faced a mixed response, illustrating a divide between critical acclaim and audience reception. The film struggled to recoup its financial investment at the box office. However, with Coriolanus now available for streaming, it presents an opportunity to revisit this reinterpretation and consider its merits while exploring the reasons it may have initially failed to resonate with viewers.
Plot and Cast of the Underrated ‘Coriolanus’
Adapted from Shakespeare’s original play that delves into the themes of power and political intrigue in ancient Rome, Fiennes’s Coriolanus reimagines the narrative in a setting reminiscent of the contemporary war-torn Balkans. This portrayal showcases a city embroiled in civil strife and food shortages, compelling the main character, Coriolanus, to engage in battle against a rival nation. As he gains popularity among the masses, a failed political ascent leads him to ally with his former enemies. Following the classic Shakespearean model, the film presents a tapestry of themes articulated through rich dialogue, though Fiennes opts for a more action-oriented and concise interpretation.
In a standout performance, Fiennes embodies Caius Martius Coriolanus, while Gerard Butler takes on the role of Tullus Aufidius, the leader of the opposition. The screenplay was crafted by John Logan, a writer known for his exceptional work on films like Gladiator, The Aviator, and The Last Samurai. While Coriolanus is among Shakespeare’s less frequently adapted plays, the 2011 film is noted as its sole major film adaptation, despite previous television interpretations.
The Mixed Reception of ‘Coriolanus’
Coriolanus struggled significantly at the box office, garnering less than $2.5 million in revenue against an estimated budget of $10 million. The track record of Shakespeare adaptations in theaters is inconsistent; for instance, while Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 film Romeo + Juliet enjoyed commercial success, Polanski’s Macbeth (1971) was so poorly received that it nearly halted further adaptations. More recently, Joel Coen’s 2021 adaptation of The Tragedy of Macbeth also failed to make a significant impact despite the critical interest it generated.
Although Coriolanus earned praise from critics—with a 92% ‘Fresh’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes compared to a contrasting 58% audience score—its disconnection with viewers is notable. Critics such as Monika Bartyzel of The Atlantic acknowledged its capacity to connect with contemporary audiences, asserting that the film resonates with timeless human truths. However, the disparity in reception raises questions about its accessibility to the general public, particularly for those less familiar with Shakespeare’s works. Some viewers found the film’s stylistic choices—such as shaky camera work, a modern rock soundtrack, and a blending of contemporary action with Elizabethan dialogue—confusing and alienating.
How to Watch ‘Coriolanus’
While Shakespeare’s plays remain challenging for some audiences, Ralph Fiennes’s Coriolanus stands out as one of the more approachable adaptations, successfully merging contemporary elements with classic literature. With a strong cast, innovative visuals, and a dynamic presentation, the film effectively brings Shakespeare’s themes into the modern era. It serves as a more accessible introduction to Shakespearean adaptations, particularly for those who may find the original dialogue daunting. You can stream Coriolanus for free on Plex.
Source
movieweb.com