Have always highly appreciated Shakespeare from a young age and 'Othello' for me is one of his best. With a concise and powerful story (even if one can argue that Iago's manipulation of Othello is too easy), very memorable quotes, one of Shakespeare's most complex leading characters and one of his most evil villains in Iago. Saw this South African production due to the high rating, that those that have seen it hold it in high regard and because it was directed by great actress Janet Suzman.
It is sad that this 'Othello' is not better known, because of the quite large DVD competition of film and stage productions available it is among the better ones in my view and certainly among the must watches. Not an easy feat, seeing as there are some brilliant productions and films of 'Othello' available (of all the DVD competitions for all Shakespeare plays, for some of his plays though the competition is scant, one of the more consistent in quality ones is for 'Othello').
My only issue is the not always well balanced and sometimes too echoey sound. Otherwise this production of 'Othello' is great.
For one thing, it is a well designed production with very effective use of the space and nothing being too swamped or claustrophobic. The settings and costumes are always tasteful and appeal on the eyes. The photography captures the action intimately while opening it up just about enough to avoid over-staginess.
The production is very sensitively and thoughtfully directed by Suzman, who makes sure that the drama never loses focus or its tension. The chemistry between Othello and Iago has intensity and the final scenes are very moving. It was good too to see a production that depicts Othello and Desdemona's age gap, it may make some not as familiar with the play uncomfortable but it was good to see a production that stuck to the original intentions. Shakespeare's text has its usual wide range of emotions and delivered with passion and sincerity from all.
John Cani is a tremendously powerful presence as Othello and dominates a cast that uniformly embody their roles. The other standout is Richard Hadden Haines' chillingly evil-incarnate Iago. Joanna Weinberg's Desdemona is noble and affecting.
All in all, a terrific production and one of the better 'Othellos' available, deserving of more exposure. 9/10
