... Luhrmann's decision in casting DiCaprio. He simply stated, "I thought that Leonardo was an extraordinary young actor and I thought he'd make a great Romeo. It's important to reveal these eternal characters anew for every generation, I just thought he'd be a perfect Romeo. It was as simple as that," ("Production Notes: Romeo and Juliet"). Luhrmann went on to say, "To me the language in Leonardo's mouth is a wonderful thing ... to hear because the words have resonance. He speaks as if they really are his words and that's something you don't always get in a Shakesperean performance," ("Pro...

• Word Count: 998
• Approx Pages: 4
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... love story of all time, in our time. William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is set in Verona Beach; a violent modern city of guns, money and greed. In this opulent world hate, rival gangs and families at war, Romeo (Leonardo Dicaprio) and Juliet (Claire Danes), are ignited by the passion of first forbidden love and Verona Beach explodes. Shakespeare's heart-wrenching tale of doomed love ... beauty, wit, furious energy and a worldwide, best selling soundtrack. A film that will kick you in the heart. Although it will probably not be considered a classic at par with the Zeffirelli version, ...

• Word Count: 380
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School