Coriolanus

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NOTE: The dialogue in this film is NOT in contemporary English, but taken from actual Shakespearean text. DO NOT PURCHASE THE FILM UNLESS YOU KNOW THIS!

A lot of people have attempted modern, updated or anachronistic interpretations of Shakespeare's great works. While some have been fantastic, just as many have fallen short of their potential. It's really about finding the right contemporary setting in which to locate the piece. For my money, 1995's "Richard III" (headlined and scripted by Ian McKellen and set in war torn England during the second World War) is one of my all time favorites. Truthfully, I've read my share of Shakespeare but "Coriolanus" is not one of the plays I was familiar with--here it is adapted by three time Oscar nominated screenwriter John Logan. I think this probably serves Ralph Fiennes' interpretation quite well, it is not as overworked as other Shakespeare offerings. Fiennes takes the directorial reins and stars in "Coriolanus" and the result seems incredibly timely and powerful. With much of our world engaged in ongoing civil strife, this narrative plays to the identifiable concepts of government corruption, oppression and insurrection, and military coups and guerilla warfare. Seriously, it's as if it was written today! I guess some things never go out of style.

"Coriolanus" opens up as a Roman General (Fiennes) staves off the invading forces of an opposing army led by Gerald Butler. But Fiennes, despite his service, is not a beloved figure. Although he tries to abide by the needs of his advisers/allies (chiefly Brian Cox and James Nesbitt), his domineering mother (Vanessa Redgrave), and his faithful wife (Jessica Chastain), he seems unable to appease the demands of the oppressed masses. Revolution is in the air, and Fiennes is betrayed by everything he has sworn to uphold. Cast out, his loyalties shift and his thoughts of revenge grow. This being Shakespeare, you know you're headed to some final bloody confrontations before we can determine where true allegiances lie. This nightmarish vision is filled with graphic violence, realistic warfare, and truly great performances. For those that get put off by the difficulty of the language, this is a surprisingly accessible and understandable film. It's gritty and in-your-face, and it's easy to get caught up in the action even if the Shakespearean dialect frightens you.

Fiennes gives himself one of the best roles he's had in years. He proves, once again, why he is an A-list talent despite some of the parts he's accepted lately. It's nice to see Butler try to stretch as an actor, he's fine if not particularly revelatory. Brian Cox is always a welcome addition. He stands as the calm within the storm while James Nesbitt perfects an oily and untrustworthy menace. Jessica Chastain (2011's busiest actress) doesn't have a lot to do, but the great Vanessa Redgrave gives a towering performance. In the end, this is a classic tragedy that seems incredibly believable and modern. It's very well made and plays largely as an action epic. A great experiment that really works, this is an easy recommendation for adult audiences. About 4 1/2 stars. KGHarris, 5/12.

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