Coriolanus

Coriolanus is a 2011 war drama directed by Ralph Fiennes, who also stars as the titular character alongside Gerard Butler and Brian Cox. The film is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's tragedy with the same title, set in a modern-day society.

The movie tells the story of Caius Martius Coriolanus, a skilled and proud Roman general who is unhappy with the political system and its corrupt politicians. He despises the common people, whom he believes are ungrateful for all the sacrifices that the military makes to keep them safe. His arrogance and harsh words cause a riot in the city, and he is banished from Rome.

Coriolanus turns to his sworn enemy and rival, Tullus Aufidius, for help and joins forces with him to launch an attack on Rome. Meanwhile, the senators of Rome try to win Coriolanus back with flattery and pleading. They convince his mother, Volumnia, to plead with him on their behalf, but she also fails to convince him.

The movie portrays the struggle between the people and the powerful, the importance of diplomacy and compromise, and the dangerous consequences of pride and arrogance. It also explores themes of loyalty, family, and the cost of war. The movie is set in a contemporary context, with modern weapons, technology, and political issues. However, the dialogue remains true to the original text, which can be challenging for some viewers.

The acting in the movie is excellent, especially Ralph Fiennes, who delivers a powerful performance as Coriolanus. He portrays the character's strengths and weaknesses, his pride and his pain, with conviction and empathy. Gerard Butler is also convincing as Tullus Aufidius, conveying the character's loyalty and ambition. Brian Cox plays Menenius, a senator and Coriolanus' mentor, with charm and humor.

The movie's visuals are stunning, with beautiful landscapes and gritty urban settings. The cinematography is excellent, with a mix of static and shaky shots that capture the intensity of the action and the drama. The music by Ilan Eshkeri is also noteworthy, with a mix of classical and modern compositions that create a haunting atmosphere.

Overall, Coriolanus is a dark and intense movie that challenges the viewer's perspective on power, politics, and war. It is a faithful adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy that brings the story to a contemporary audience with skill and passion. The movie may not be suitable for everyone, as the dialogue can be dense and the violence can be graphic. However, for fans of Shakespeare and of war dramas, Coriolanus is a must-watch movie that offers a new take on an old classic.