One of the suitors for the beautiful Bianca (Natasha Pyne) gets his money-hungry friend, Petruchio (Richard Burton), to woo her wild sister, Catarina (Elizabeth Taylor). Petruchio attempts to change Kate into a dutiful wife with mind games and “kindness.”
I can’t say what stands out more in this very traditional rendition of Shakespeare’s comedy, the impressive voices of its two stars, or the rich colors that fill the screen, but both are things of beauty. The supporting actors are nearly as good, and the music is a perfect accompaniment. While so skillfully done, I could have asked for more artistry. Lacking in innovation, I felt more like I was fulfilling a homework assignment than being entertained while I watched. Franco Zeffirelli and his stars have read the play and understand the surface meaning, but show no sign of getting to the root of the play. The most obvious lack is humor. Shakespeare meant his audience to laugh, but this version only brings forth smiles, and most of those from added slapstick. Any Shakespeare fan will want to see Zeffirelli’s movie once, but there is nothing here that requires a repeat.