I admit I'm no expert on Shakespeare and I'd never read 'Twelfth Night' before seeing this film, so I found it a little difficult to follow. For instance, I could never quite figure out the role of Ben Kingsley's character. I didn't find this film as accessible as two other Shakespeare adaptations which appeared near the same time, Kenneth Branagh's 'Hamlet' or 'Richard III' with Ian McKellen. Consequently, I didn't think it was as outstanding as those two were.
But enough of the negatives. There is plenty to recommend Trevor Nunn's 'Twelfth Night' and first and foremost on the list is an absolutely fabulous performance by Imogen Stubbs. I had seen her before in 'Sense and Sensibility,' where she did a fine job, but she wasn't a particular standout among that remarkable cast. Here she simply steals the show playing Viola, who masquerades as a man, Cesario. Her scenes with Helena Bonham Carter as Olivia, who is smitten with "him," are a great joy and lots of fun to watch. I don't know if any other version of 'TN' ever played up the angle of sexual ambiguity as much as this one does, but it makes it very interesting for a modern audience.
There are many other fine performances, and this is quite a lavish production as well, so on balance I found it worthwhile. But whenever I think of this film I think of Imogen Stubbs.
But enough of the negatives. There is plenty to recommend Trevor Nunn's 'Twelfth Night' and first and foremost on the list is an absolutely fabulous performance by Imogen Stubbs. I had seen her before in 'Sense and Sensibility,' where she did a fine job, but she wasn't a particular standout among that remarkable cast. Here she simply steals the show playing Viola, who masquerades as a man, Cesario. Her scenes with Helena Bonham Carter as Olivia, who is smitten with "him," are a great joy and lots of fun to watch. I don't know if any other version of 'TN' ever played up the angle of sexual ambiguity as much as this one does, but it makes it very interesting for a modern audience.
There are many other fine performances, and this is quite a lavish production as well, so on balance I found it worthwhile. But whenever I think of this film I think of Imogen Stubbs.