Whether you’re a traditionalist or you enjoy the kind of director that takes some creative liberties, we’ve got something for everyone on this list of 17 Shakespeare movies that are sure to enliven your movie marathon celebrating Shakespeare’s birthday on April 23.
Titus, 1999
Photo Credit: The Weinstein CompanyThis adaptation of Shakespeare’s bloodiest play directed by Julie Taymor stars Anthony Hopkins, Jessica Lange, and Alan Cummings.
Buy it on Amazon.
10 Things I Hate About You, 1999
Photo Credit: Buena Vista PicturesThis teen rom-com adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew is just so, so excellent, and has aged like a fine wine. We miss you, Heath Ledger.
Stream it on Amazon.
Romeo and Juliet, 1968
Photo Credit: Paramount PicturesThe Zeffirelli version of Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers is basically the gold standard of Shakespeare adaptations.
Stream it on Amazon.
Romeo + Juliet, 1996
Photo Credit: 20th Century FoxBut then of course, there’s Baz Luhrman’s psychedelic romp starring teen heart-throbs Leo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. That aquarium scene? We’re done. Bye.
Stream it on Amazon.
Much Ado About Nothing, 1993
Photo Credit: BBC FilmsEmma Thompson can do no wrong. She is perfect.
Stream it on Amazon.
Henry V, 1944
Photo Credit: United ArtistsBefore there was Kenneth Branagh, there was Sir Laurence Oliver.
Stream it on Amazon.
Hamlet, 1990
Photo Credit: Warner Bros.Hamlet, 1996
Photo Credit: Columbia PicturesThis epic adaptation by Kenneth Branagh is worth a watch, especially for die-hard Shakespeare fans, with its four hour, twenty minute run time.
Stream it on Amazon.
Othello, 1995
Photo Credit: Castle Rock EntertainmentThat handkerchief is up to no good, mark our words.
Stream it on Amazon.
O, 2001
Photo Credit: Lions Gate FilmsThrone of Blood, 1957
Photo Credit: Toho CompanyMacbeth, 1971
Photo Credit: Columbia PicturesMacbeth‘s unique violence, which hedges on the paranormal, seems particularly suited to the talents of director Roman Polanski.
Stream it on Amazon.
A Performance of Macbeth, 1979
Photo Credit: Royal Shakespeare CompanyWhen you want Macbeth done right, you ask Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench.
Stream it on Amazon.
Scotland, Pa., 2001
Photo Credit: Abandon PicturesThis hilarious adaptation of Macbeth turns an envious Scottish general into a hamburger-slinging fast food kingpin.
Buy it on Amazon.
Macbeth, 2015
Photo Credit: Weinstein CompanyThis most recent adaptation stars Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard as Shakespeare’s most notorious couple.
Stream it on Amazon.
