Le Marchand de Venise

In the Sixteenth Century, there was a great intolerance against Jews. In 1596, in the liberal Venice, Bassanio (Joseph Fiennes) asks for a large amount to his friend, the merchant Antonio (Jeremy Irons), to travel to Belmont and propose the gorgeous Portia (Lynn Collins). Antonio has invested all his money in his ships and borrows from the usurer Shylock (Al Pacino), who proposes an unusual bond: if Antonio does not pay the money without any interest three months later, he might receive one pound of his flesh instead, at his choice. When Shylock's daughter Jessica (Zuleikha Robinson) runaway home with all his money and jewels, he becomes furious. Meanwhile, the load of Antonio sinks with three different vessels and he is not able to pay his debts with Shylock, and the Jew goes to court of Venice claiming the execution of his deal. In spite of many requests, his tough heart does not accept any other agreement further than the one established in their contract.

"The Merchant of Venice" is a great adaptation of Shakespeare play and a perfect vehicle for the brilliant Al Pacino, with a character, dialogs and screenplay tailored for him. Jeremy Irons is also fantastic on the other side of this tale of revenge with cruelty and forgiveness. The cinematography, costumes, landscapes and scenery are stunning and the beauty of Lynn Collins is amazing. My vote is seven.

Title (Brazil): "O Mercador de Veneza" ("The Merchant of Venice")