Romeo & Juliet Film Analysis

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Baz Luhrmann has employed the use of many different thematic devices and motifs to convey his message throughout the film. One of the recurring themes was the concept of duality, or strength and weakness. It is on that constantly came back all throughout the film. Of the many times it was used, one of the best uses of it was during the confrontation between Romeo and Tybalt. Initially, it was clear that Tybalt was the bigger man, both physically and metaphorically. He was a much more menacing and intimidating person than Romeo. Romeo was losing in this battle, and was weak. However, Mercutio’s death set off Romeo, and he snaps. He erupts in a fit of fiery anger, and lashes out. He pursues Tybalt in his car, and is visibly resentful. His altered state of mind is also portrayed by the frantic camera movements as Romeo is driving. Another metaphor is that while they were on the beach, a storm began to start, and after Mercutio died the storm became much fiercer, and it became much darker. By the time Romeo is chasing Tybalt, it is very dark and is heavily raining, the rain could also represent Romeo’s tears for losing his friend. After Romeo grabs Tybalt’s gun and points it him, it is very clear that the table have turned. Tybalt is now the scared weakling, and Romeo is the fierce madman. After Romeo shoots and kills Tybalt, he falls backwards into pool of water, this could also symbolize his passing from this world, as he is being reborn into the afterlife.

Baz Luhrmanns reimagined version of Romeo & Juliet is one that defies the limits set by the original play. Whether it be the modernization of characters and settings, or the plentiful amount of symbolism and motifs throughout the film, he has broken past the ceilings that the original play had set. By updating the characters and casting relevant actors, he has enabled many people in today’s society, specifically younger people, to connect with and understand the work of Shakespeare, and he does so without sacrificing any of the quality or distinction held by the original play.