Romeo and Juliet 1968: The Film That Pushed the Boundaries of Censorship

Introduction

Released in 1968, Franco Zeffirelli's adaptation of Romeo and Juliet is renowned for its groundbreaking depiction of nudity and sensuality. The film's explicit scenes sparked controversy upon its release, but it has since become a classic, influencing countless other cinematic adaptations of the Shakespearean tragedy.

Nudity in Romeo and Juliet 1968

Zeffirelli's film features several nude scenes, including:

• A brief glimpse of Romeo (Leonard Whiting) bathing in a stream
• Juliet (Olivia Hussey) revealing herself to Romeo in her bedchamber
• The two lovers sharing a bed after their wedding night

These scenes caused a stir among censors at the time, who believed they were too explicit for audiences. However, Zeffirelli argued that the nudity was necessary to convey the film's themes of love, longing, and loss.

Controversy and Censorship

The film's nudity sparked a heated debate about censorship and the role of art in society. Some critics condemned the film as gratuitous and exploitative, while others defended it as a powerful and authentic depiction of human emotion.

In the United States, the film was originally rated X by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), effectively banning it from most theaters. However, after a legal battle, a PG-13 rating was granted, allowing it to be released to a wider audience.

Impact and Legacy

Despite the controversy, Romeo and Juliet 1968 has had a profound impact on cinema. Its groundbreaking use of nudity paved the way for more explicit films in the future. Moreover, the film's beautiful cinematography, evocative performances, and timeless themes have made it a beloved classic.

Themes and Symbolism

Beyond its nudity, Romeo and Juliet 1968 explores a range of complex themes, including:

1. Love and Desire: The film portrays the intense passion and desire between Romeo and Juliet, a love that transcends social conventions and societal norms.
2. Innocence and Experience: Romeo and Juliet are both young and inexperienced, yet their love for each other forces them to confront the harsh realities of life and love.
3. Death and Tragedy: The film's tragic ending underscores the destructive power of hatred and prejudice, and the futility of trying to control the course of love.

Psychological Analysis of Romeo and Juliet 1968

1. Romeo: Romeo is a young and idealistic man who is passionately in love with Juliet. He is impulsive and reckless, often acting without thinking through the consequences.
2. Juliet: Juliet is a young and innocent woman who is torn between her love for Romeo and her duty to her family. She is intelligent and self-aware, but she is also trapped by the expectations of society.

Visual Style and Cinematography

Zeffirelli's film is visually stunning, featuring lush scenery, elaborate costumes, and expressive lighting. The cinematography captures the beauty and passion of the young lovers while also highlighting the darkness and despair that surrounds them.

Considerations for Educators

1. Historical Context and Censorship: When teaching this film, it is important to discuss the historical context of its release and the controversy it generated. Students should be encouraged to reflect on the role of censorship in society and the evolving definitions of what is considered "acceptable" in art.

2. Themes and Symbolism: The film offers a rich opportunity to explore complex themes such as love, loss, and the power of passion. Encourage students to analyze the symbolism and imagery used throughout the film to convey these themes.

3. Psychological Analysis: The characters of Romeo and Juliet are psychologically complex and relatable. Encourage students to delve into their motivations, conflicts, and relationships to gain a deeper understanding of the human condition.

4. Literary and Historical Connections: The film is an adaptation of Shakespeare's play, and students can benefit from making connections between the two versions. Additionally, teachers can explore the historical and cultural context of the original play to enhance students' understanding of the film.

Tables

Table 1: Box Office Performance

Table 2: Critical Reception

Table 3: Awards and Nominations

Table 4: Cultural Impact