Compilation/Packaged Set: Silent Shakespeare
Barcode 014381922424
Release Date 1999

Such stuff as dreams are made on... In the early days of cinema, pioneer filmmakers created these seven films based on the plays of William Shakespeare. Considered a "lowbrow" medium, the fledgling movie industry sought to elevate its status by immortalizing the classics and hiring the greatest actors of the day. As most of these early photoplays were only one or two reels long, adapting the Bard proved to be both challenging and inspiring. Digitally restored by the British Film Institute.

Principal entry

This DVD features:

  1. King John (Britain, 1899),
  2. The Tempest (Britain, 1908),
  3. A Midsummer Night's Dream (USA, 1909),
  4. King Lear (Italy, 1910),
  5. Twelfth Night (USA, 1910),
  6. The Merchant of Venice (Italy, 1910),
  7. Richard III (Britain, 1911).
The Tempest
 (1908)
Drama, Fantasy
In Collection
#1176
6*
Seen It:  Yes
(10/15/2017)
IMDB   5.9
12 mins UK / Silent
DVD  Region 1
Director
Percy Stow
Writer William Shakespeare
Langford Reed


An example of a Shakespearian play made for silent films. Prospero and his daughter Miranda must take refuge on an enchanted island. There Prospero, who himself has magical powers, releases the spirit Ariel from a spell, and also meets the savage Caliban. Then Prospero uses his powers to create a tempest that shipwrecks some of the persons who caused his exile.
Edition Details
No. of Discs/Tapes 1
References
Streaming, VoD YouTube
IMDb Voters <500

Notes
The Tempest is an example of early filmmaking.· Otherwise, it didn't much speak to me.