The Taming of the Shrew
The Taming of the Shrew

Movie spotlight

The Taming of the Shrew

1967
Movie
117 min
English

Italy, 16th century. Petruchio, a choleric, lying and poor rural landowner from Verona, arrives in Padua in search of fortune and a wife, while Baptista, a wealthy merchant, announces that he will not allow Bianca, his youngest daughter, to marry until the temperamental and unruly Katherina, his eldest daughter, does.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes77%
Google Users85%
Director: Franco ZeffirelliGenres: Comedy, Romance

Plot Summary

In Padua, wealthy Baptista Minola has two daughters: the gentle Bianca and the shrewish, fiery Katherina. Baptista declares that Bianca cannot marry until Katherina is wed. Enter Petruchio, a fortune hunter seeking a wealthy wife, who decides to woo and 'tame' Katherina, leading to a series of comedic battles of wit and will. Meanwhile, Bianca's suitors conspire to help her marry while Katherina is occupied.

Critical Reception

The 1967 adaptation of 'The Taming of the Shrew' was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its vibrant production, faithful yet lively interpretation of Shakespeare's play, and the combustible chemistry between its stars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The performances were widely praised, though some modern interpretations have questioned the film's portrayal of the central relationship.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its visually rich costumes and sets.

  • Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's star power and on-screen chemistry are highlights.

  • A spirited and entertaining, albeit sometimes anachronistic, adaptation of the classic play.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciate the film's theatricality and the performances of Taylor and Burton, finding it an enjoyable and classic interpretation of the Shakespearean comedy. Some viewers note the dated gender dynamics but still acknowledge the film's entertainment value.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for 2 BAFTA Awards (Best Costume Design, Best Art Direction).

Fun Fact

During filming, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton were actually married and divorced, then remarried during the production of this film, adding to the real-life drama that mirrored their on-screen tempestuous relationship.

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