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"The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)" is a very clever, humorous reworking of Shakespeare's plays as performed by three men. Some plays, like "Hamlet" and "Romeo and Juliet," are given thorough parodies, while others are quickly glossed over, such as the scene where they parody all the comedies in three minutes, stating that since the comedies are all alike, Shakespeare should have written just one. The brevity given to some of the plays just adds to the zaniness--would've guessed that you could perform "Julius Caesar" and "Antony and Cleopatra" in under a minute while using dialogue from "Macbeth"? Able to be enjoyed by anyone, this show will also be a delight to those acquainted with the Bard, as the play is sprinkled with little in-jokes that Shakespeare scholars will understand. While audience reaction shots are a little overused, overall the feeling of a live show comes through in this DVD, which is a pitfall that many filmed plays succumb to. They are plays shot on a stage, but without the editing and cinematography that characterizes film. This show, on the other hand, keeps its energy in the transfer to film. This is probably because the actors are so full of energy and keep the comedy coming at an extremely fast pace. This DVD would be great to show to a high school or college English class to get them familiarized with Shakespeare and to show them that these plays don't have to be dry and dull. I highly recommend it. Extras include two commmentary tracks and a clip from the play's premiere.Read full review
this is sketch comedy/drama at the best. While not recommended as the "cliff's notes" for any serious-minded scholor of the bard, it is very well done and hilarious. Even the most compelling and dark of the tragedies, Hamlet or Lear, are portrayed in understandable and entertaining fashion. A bit tongue in cheek, and somewhat cheeky as well, the players work off each others' wit and energies to present the works (yes, all of them) not so much as they were intended, but certainly as they are marketed here. You get them all, without fuss, muss or bother. I first saw this performance on a netflix rental and determined to search for it to add it to my off beat collection. Found it and won't part with it now. I recommend it for any evening of light hearted fun, with a bit of classic literature thrown in for good measure. As for good taste, all in the eye and ear of the beholder, so be warned. I think it worth it, but it isn't to be taken seriously. Hint: you'll never pass the midterm or final if you use this as a study guide, but you will laugh. Out loud. Often.Read full review
I came across this at the library years ago and enjoyed it so much I finally treated myself to a copy of my very own. It is rapid fire fun and has some good information as well. The talents of the presenters are amazing, and like Shakespeare's plays, this live and on stage performance has a mix of comedy, drama, pathos, and a touch of the bawdy here and there. If you know much at all about Shakespeare, this will be great fun. If you know virtually nothing about Shakespeare, it is still a fun outing.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This stage comedy in 2001 by three Shakespeare scholar - goofballs was hilarious! Audience participation added to the funny business. Great stuff never goes out of date.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is hilarious fun and had me laughing all the way through. Even those who think Shakespeare is boring and avoid it, will enjoy this one. Some familiarity with the plays adds to the experience, but is not necessary. There are only three actors in this show and they do a great job of entertaining the audience. Just be aware, this is not traditional Shakespeare. Titus Andronicus is a cooking show.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned