Rated R for some bloody violence.
Starring Ralph Fiennes, Gerard Butler and Brian Cox
Directed by Ralph Fiennes
I’ve never been accused of being artsy or even a real film critic, but I really liked Coriolanus.
Caius Martius Coriolanus (Ralph Fiennes), a revered and feared Roman General is at odds with the city of Rome and his fellow citizens. Pushed by his controlling and ambitious mother Volumnia (Vanessa Redgrave) to seek the exalted and powerful position of Consul, he is loath to ingratiate himself with the masses whose votes he needs in order to secure the office. When the public refuses to support him, Coriolanus’s anger prompts a riot that culminates in his expulsion from Rome. The banished hero then allies himself with his sworn enemy Tullus Aufidius (Gerard Butler) to take his revenge on the city.
Ralph Fiennes turns one of Shakespeare’s least-loved plays into a modern drama in his film-directing debut…impressive!
The movie opens with a bang as citizens in bread lines are rioting and then jumps to a bloody battle scene. Then there are long stretches of poetic dialogue that honesty caused me to fade in and out. Without being a huge fan of the play, I had to force myself to pay attention…and I’m so glad I did.
I have to give Fiennes props. Not only does he direct a great film, but he is very good in the title role. Even Gerard Butler impressed me in this one.
Coriolanus may not be for everyone, but if you have the time and attention needed to fully appreciate this film…please watch it. You will not be disappointed – it’s “Theater Worthy.”
SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There is no sex, nudity or profanity. The R-rating is for the violence.
Conversation Starter:
- Like most of Shakespeare’s stories Coriolanus has some dark themes. What are some of them?
Read Romans 12:18
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
- Why did Coriolanus decide to live in peace?
- How did Aufidius respond?
- God wants us to do everything we can to live in peace with people around us. And unfortunately, some people may attack us for not fighting.
- What are some ways you can live in peace?
- What potential issues do you see arising if you do?
- How can we pray for your enemies?
