Merchant of Venice (The)
- Director: Michael Radford
- Writer: William Shakespeare; Michael Radford
- Producer: Andreas Bajohra; Cary Brokaw
CGiii Comment
A brave adaptation - it certainly delivers a kick to the vitals.
Production values are lush - as is the intelligence behind the camera.
Good work - indeed.
Trailer...
The(ir) Blurb...
Venice, 1596. Melancholy Antonio loves the youthful Bassanio, so when Bassanio asks for 3000 ducats, Antonio says yes before knowing it's to sue for the hand of Portia. His capital tied up in merchant ships at sea, Antonio must go to Shylock, a Jewish moneylender he reviles. Shylock wraps his grudge in kindness, offering a three-month loan at no interest, but if not repaid, Antonio will owe a pound of flesh. The Jew's daughter elopes with a Christian, whetting Shylock's hatred. While Bassanio's away wooing Portia, Antonio's ships founder, and Shylock demands his pound of flesh. With court assembled and a judgment due, Portia swings into action to save Bassanio's friend.
Cast & Characters
Al Pacino as Shylock;
Jeremy Irons as Antonio;
Joseph Fiennes as Bassanio;
Lynn Collins as Portia;
Zuleikha Robinson as Jessica;
Kris Marshall as Gratiano;
Charlie Cox as Lorenzo;
Heather Goldenhersh as Nerissa;
Mackenzie Crook as Launcelot Gobbo;
John Sessions as Salerio;
Gregor Fisher as Solanio;
Ron Cook as Old Gobbo;
Allan Corduner as Tubal;
Anton Rodgers as The Duke;
David Harewood as Prince of Morocco