the voice talents of Donald Glover (Simba), John Oliver (Zazu), Beyonce (Nala), Seth Rogen (Pumbaa), Chiwatel Ejiofor (Scar) and Billy Eichner (Timon) have some great moments. However, much of the comedy, that was sparkling and original in the animated classic was missing or fell flat in this lacklustre reboot. As a standalone film, young audiences and fans of the original film will find some entertainment in it. However, it is largely unnecessary and many of the iconic songs are glossed over and not given adequate attention. The a capella song In The Jungle is a highlight which provides some good laughs. Fans of the classic will be right at home but The Lion King is not all it could have been and falls into the trap of ‘just another remake’ without any real purpose. Not Highly Recommended. ~oOo~ Film: Director: Reviewer:
Beautifully shot and presented in a contemporary voice, Ophelia cleverly merges elements of the original story with plot points which morph the story into a whole new light from Ophelia’s perspective. The tale, which follows Hamlet’s descent into madness looking to avenge his father, the King’s, death and his dislike for his mother’s new husband and Hamlet’s uncle, Claudius (Clive Owen) merges with Ophelia’s inner struggle with her love for Hamlet and her own safety. Daisy Ridley brings a quiet tenderness to Ophelia but possesses many moments of strength and ferocity which provide a great balance. The film belongs to her as well as the talented Naomi Watts who must save face whilst protecting a kingdom on the brink of war. Clive Owen is in his elements as the scheming Claudius and George McKay has some good moments as Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Overall, Ophelia feels fresh and unique, driving a ‘female take-back-the-narrative’ with great success. Some great performances anchor a very entertaining film which pays tribute to the original story whilst cleverly reinventing gender roles for a contemporary audience! Highly Recommended.
Ophelia Claire McCarthy Chris McRae
F
rom director Claire McCarthy comes a visionary re-telling of Shakespeare’s Hamlet as told from the female perspective. The classic tale of betrayal, love and death is presented through the eyes of Ophelia (Daisy Ridley) and follows the turmoil of her love for Hamlet (George McKay) and her relationship with Queen Gertrude (Naoimi Watts).
When Ophelia is taken in by the Queen at a young age into Elsinore Castle, she develops into her most trusted lady-inwaiting. As betrayal, intrigue, murder and a brewing war threaten Elsinore, Ophelia must learn to keep her own secrets to protect her love and honour. 26