For anyone interested in editing or any other aspect of film-making, this is an indisputable milestone in directorial resourcefulness. Shooting it over years and in different locations (Morocco, Spain, etc.) with variations, often within the same scene, Welles managed to create the watertight illusion of a coherent world, leading the viewer to imagine that lavish sets and locations were available. Othello holds its own even when measured against the impressive Welles oeuvre, a true miracle if you are familiar with the films' history. His pictures each possess a unique aesthetic and daring camera work. Orson Welles is mostly celebrated for reinventing the look of film. But as always, we expect more from an Orson Welles film. It diminishes the play but enhances the film, giving it a tighter focus and a more fluid structure and running time. Fans of the text may regret the absence of a character or the significant reduction of his/her importance. His "Othello" boils down to the title character, his wife, Iago and bit players (and impressive numbers of extras). In adapting Shakespeare's play, Welles has done away with subplots he deemed unnecessary. Thankfully, Welles excels in the title role, his hurt palpable. Many a time has a white actor portrayed black Othello. Iago slowly builds a web of deceit and lies around Othello that leads him to question the faithfulness of his wife and men, ultimately pushing him to far. Unbeknownst to him, one of his lieutenants, Iago, seething with jealousy, plans to bring him down. Othello, Moor of Venice, loves Desdemonda. Reviewed by OttoVonB 9 / 10 Concentrated Shakepseare
0 kommentar(er)
