12 Movies That Hid Shakespeare So Well Even English Majors Missed It 12 Movies That Hid Shakespeare So Well Even English Majors Missed It

Here is a fascinating twist: classic Shakespearean works have often been adapted in the most surprising ways, buried beneath layers of modern storytelling. While some movies make it abundantly clear that they are inspired by Shakespeare’s works, others weave his tales into their plots so seamlessly that even the most trained eyes might miss the connection. Whether through the lens of a contemporary setting, bold reinterpretations or just subtle nods to the Bard’s brilliance, these films take the timeless themes of love, betrayal, ambition and tragedy and reimagine them for today’s audience.

West Side Story, 1961

A musical version of Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story reimagines the doomed love story of Shakespeare’s classic in 1950s New York City. The feud between the Montagues and Capulets becomes the rivalry between two gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. The film blends musical numbers, vibrant choreography and intense drama to retell the timeless tragedy of forbidden love, violence and fate.

The Taming of the Shrew, 1967

This version of The Taming of the Shrew stars Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, whose real life chemistry fuels the film’s fiery dialogue and romantic tension. The film brings Shakespeare’s classic comedy to life with lavish costumes, grand sets and stunning performances. The themes of marriage, manipulation and mutual respect or lack thereof, remain relevant and captivating in this colorful, theatrical retelling.

O, 2001

A modern adaptation of Othello, O is set in an elite prep school, where the tragic tale of jealousy and manipulation unfolds on the basketball court. Starring Josh Hartnett as O, the movie brings the themes of betrayal and envy into a contemporary setting. The film captures the intense emotions of Shakespeare’s play while exploring the destructive power of trust, loyalty and the vulnerability of youth.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 1999

The 1999 film adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings Shakespeare’s whimsical comedy to life with a star studded cast. With Helena Bonham Carter, Michelle Pfeiffer and Kevin Kline, the film adds a layer of fantasy to the original play’s magic and mischief. The film’s enchanting setting, vibrant costumes and playful tone brings the supernatural elements of the original play to the forefront, while still holding onto the essence of Shakespeare’s exploration of love, jealousy and transformation.

The Moderns, 1988

This film blends art, romance, and intrigue, taking a Shakespearean approach to its story. Set in Paris during the 1920s, The Moderns channels the existential themes found in Shakespeare’s As You Like It, focusing on identity and romantic entanglements. The characters’ roles as artists, conmen and lovers echo the complex relationships and mistaken identities that define Shakespeare’s work, all set against the backdrop of a vibrant, Bohemian art scene.

The Dresser, 2015

This is a poignant and compelling drama that revolves around the complex and often tumultuous relationship between an aging Shakespearean actor and his loyal dresser. Set against the backdrop of a struggling theater production in the midst of World War II, the movie explores themes of loyalty, artistry and the passage of time. The film stars Ian McKellen as Sir, the renowned actor and Sir Anthony Hopkins as Norman, his long suffering dresser who has been by his side for years, managing both his career and his increasingly erratic behavior.

Cruel Intentions, 1999

Based on Les Liaisons Dangereuses, which is itself loosely based on Shakespeare’s King Lear, this film brings the manipulation and deception of the original play into a modern high school setting. The scheming characters, led by Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe, engage in dangerous games of power and revenge that ultimately echo Shakespeare’s examination of morality and corruption.

The Tempest, 2010

This a film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s final play of the same name, directed by Julie Taymor. Known for her unique visual style, Taymor brings Shakespeare’s classic tale to life with a contemporary twist, reimagining the character of Prospero as a woman, played by Helen Mirren. This change adds a fresh dynamic to the story, which follows the exiled sorceress, Prospera, as she conjures a storm to bring those who wronged her to the island where she has lived in exile.

Deadpool 2, 2018

“Deadpool 2” is the fast-paced, outrageously funny sequel to the 2016 smash hit Deadpool. Directed by David Leitch, the film takes the irreverent antihero, Wade Wilson played by Ryan Reynolds, to new emotional depths while still delivering the signature humor and violence fans crave. The movie follows Deadpool as he assembles the mutant team X-Force to protect a young boy named Russell, Julian Dennison, from a time traveling, future soldier named Cable, Josh Brolin.

The Beatles’ A Hard Day’s Night, 1964

The Beatles’ A Hard Day’s Night 1964, Shakespeare’s influence can be felt in this early Beatles film, especially in its comedic misunderstandings and mistaken identities. The structure of the film, which mirrors the chaos and confusion often seen in Shakespearean comedies, places its characters in increasingly absurd situations, showcasing the timelessness of Shakespeare’s comedic devices.

Slings and Arrows, 2003–2006

This Canadian television series blends Shakespeare’s influence with comedic flair, following the lives of actors in a small Shakespearean theater troupe. While the show does not adapt a specific play, it is steeped in Shakespeare’s legacy, exploring themes of love, loss and the often absurd lives of those who interpret the Bard’s works on stage. It is a delightful and intelligent way to explore the Bard’s continued impact on the modern world of theater.

Coriolanus, 2011 – Political Tragedy with Ralph Fiennes

Coriolanus 2011, Political Tragedy with Ralph Fiennes This modernized take on Coriolanus is a tense, politically charged drama. Ralph Fiennes not only stars as the titular Roman general but also directs the film, setting it in a contemporary, war torn landscape. The film’s stark, modern setting provides a visceral and relevant context for Shakespeare’s exploration of power, politics and the complexity of human nature.

Shakespeare’s works have endured for centuries, and their influence continues to resonate across various forms of storytelling. Whether through modern teen comedies, animated classics or gritty dramas, filmmakers have found innovative ways to weave Shakespeare’s timeless themes into contemporary narratives. These 12 films and shows demonstrate just how relevant and enduring the Bard’s genius remains, influencing the way we think about love, betrayal, ambition and fate.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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