Romeo and Juliet

A timeless tale of love and tragedy unfolds in a city divided by hatred.

Critics broadly regard Zeffirelli's adaptation as a highly effective, visually beautiful, and emotionally powerful rendering of Shakespeare's tragedy.

• Romeo and Juliet belong to rival Montague and Capulet clans, forcing their devotion into secrecy and peril.
• The Verona setting is presented through location photography, lived-in streets, and ceremonial spaces rather than abstract studio backdrops.
• The lovers' vows are repeatedly overwhelmed by the longstanding Montague-Capulet feud and the machinations of fate.
• Leonard Whiting and Olivia Hussey portray Romeo and Juliet as passionate adolescents whose brief encounter rapidly becomes absolute devotion.

• West Side Storytragic forbidden romance shaped by family conflict and social constraints
• Atonementperiod romance combining youthful passion, family opposition, lush visuals, and tragic fate
• Wuthering Heightsliterary romantic tragedy centered on idealized young lovers and forces beyond their control

Director

Franco Zeffirelli

Release Date

1968-04-02

Runtime

138 min

Rating

7.4 / 10 (764)

What is Romeo and Juliet about?

Two young lovers challenge Verona’s murderous family feud, turning first love into an exquisitely visual tragedy.

What is Romeo and Juliet like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Romeo and Juliet as measured, its intensity as strong and its storytelling as layered.

Is Romeo and Juliet violent?

Only mildly. Ember rates the violence in Romeo and Juliet as mild.

What did critics think of Romeo and Juliet?

Critics broadly regard Zeffirelli's adaptation as a highly effective, visually beautiful, and emotionally powerful rendering of Shakespeare's tragedy.

Which films are like Romeo and Juliet?

Films with a similar feel include West Side Story, Atonement, and Wuthering Heights.

How long is Romeo and Juliet?

Romeo and Juliet runs 138 minutes.

Where can I watch Romeo and Juliet?

In United States, Romeo and Juliet streams on Hoopla.