ROMEO N JULIET 4EVA

This film took me by surprise when I first saw it at the cinema a while back. It had an easy charm and lots of wit and seemed to make the classic story fresh again. It was a little ropey around the edges through the obvious lack of money, but the director did a great job with the young leads, and it was obvious they had chemistry anyway. Romeo made me smile and his vibes with Juliet was just right for young love. It was refreshing to see a film like this set in Jamaica with no out and out violence and badness. Happy to recommend the film and Im interested to see what the director does next for sure. CT.

Paul Bucknor's Romeo and Juliet 4VA is a vibrant and inventive reimagining of Shakespeare's timeless tale, set against the pulsating backdrop of urban Jamaica. By replacing feuding noble families with rival school gangs, the film modernizes the tragic love story, making it resonate with contemporary audiences. Bucknor's direction shines as he coaxes remarkable performances from a largely untrained cast, many of whom had probably never encountered the Bard's verse. Their raw authenticity infuses the dialogue with fresh energy, making Shakespeare's words feel alive and urgent. The film's charm lies in its seamless blend of cultural specificity and universal themes, creating a deeply moving exploration of love, conflict, and identity. Endearing and heartfelt, Romeo and Juliet 4VA is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's work and Bucknor's inspired storytelling. Shakespeare has never seemed so modern or relevant to our times.