SHAKESPEARE

Synopsis

Of the 154 sonnets written by Shakespeare, most were written to an unnamed young man, commonly referred to as the Fair Youth. Here, Judi Dench’s readings of these 14 sonnets (nos 27, 29, 30, 43, 53, 55, 56, 57, 61, 90, 104, 126, 148) are coupled with ethereal sequences; figures on seashores, by streams and in colourful gardens. The disruption of these magical scenes with images of barren and threatening landscapes echoes the celebration and torment of love explored in the sonnets. Shot on Super-8 before being transferred to 35mm film, the unique technical approach results in a striking aesthetic, with music by Coil’.

Language

English

Country

Great Britain

Medium

Film; Video

Technical information

Colour / Sound

Year of release

2006

Duration

89 mins

Credits

Director

Derek Jarman

Producer

James Mackay

Writer

William Shakespeare

Contributor

Judi Dench; Paul Reynolds; Philip Williamson

Additional Details

Production type

Other

Subjects

English language and literature

Keywords

homosexuality; Shakespeare, William (1564-1616); sonnets; Gay and lesbian interpretations

Notes

Notes

DVD extras include: Specially commissioned interviews with producer James Mackay and production designer Christopher Hobbs; Derek Jarman in conversation with Simon Field (1989, 32 mins); stills gallery; 20-page illustrated booklet including introductory essay by Colin MacCabe, Tilda Swinton’s testimonial letter to Derek Jarman and photographs taken during the making of the film.

Sponsor

Name

BFI Production Board

Name

Channel Four Television

Phone

071-396 4444

Address

LONDON
SW1P 2TX

Distributor

Name

Retail outlets

Distributor (Sale)

Name

BFI Video

Email

video.films@bfi.org.uk

Web

http://www.bfi.org.uk External site opens in new window

Phone

020 7957 8957

Fax

020 7957 8968

Address

21 Stephen Street
London
W1T 1LN