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 Company
This 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 Pictures
This 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 Pictures
The 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 Fox
But 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 Films
Emma Thompson can do no wrong. She is perfect.
Stream it on Amazon.
Henry V, 1944
- Photo Credit: United Artists
Before there was Kenneth Branagh, there was Sir Laurence Oliver.
Stream it on Amazon.
Hamlet, 1990
- Photo Credit: Warner Bros.
Hamlet, 1996
- Photo Credit: Columbia Pictures
This 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 Entertainment
That handkerchief is up to no good, mark our words.
Stream it on Amazon.
O, 2001
- Photo Credit: Lions Gate Films
Throne of Blood, 1957
- Photo Credit: Toho Company
Macbeth, 1971
- Photo Credit: Columbia Pictures
Macbeth‘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 Company
When you want Macbeth done right, you ask Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench.
Stream it on Amazon.
Scotland, Pa., 2001
- Photo Credit: Abandon Pictures
This 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 Company
This most recent adaptation stars Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard as Shakespeare’s most notorious couple.
Stream it on Amazon.