Even though I am familiar with many of the plays, I enjoy seeing the different ways filmmakers will interpret Shakespeare. Even when the text remains relatively the same, no two films are quite alike. This week, Warner Brothers will be releasing several films from Shakespeare’s plays, representing relatively respectful versions.

Possibly the best is Kenneth Branagh’s all star filming of the complete Hamlet. Like Laurence Olivier before him, Branagh stars and directs his version of what may be Shakespeare’s greatest play. The cast includes Kate Winslet, Julie Christie, Derek Jacobi, Charlton Heston (really, and he’s good), as well as Billy Crystal and Jack Lemmon. Some of the casting may be more of a stunt, but this two disc set is the only version of the complete play.

Another form of stunt casting is in the 1935 version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Filmed by Max Reinhardt, a highly respected stage director, this was Warner Brothers attempt at a prestige film. The cast is made up of Warner Brothers contract players like James Cagney, Dick Powell, Joe E. Brown and Olivia De Havilland. Of the films in this collection, this is the most fun to watch.

The title role of Othello is a challenge. As respected a Shakespearean actor as he may be, I disagree with Laurence Olivier’s choice to play the Moor in blackface in 1968. My own feeling is that Orson Welles made a better film version.

Finally, there is the 1936 version of Romeo and Juliet with the way too mature Leslie Howard and Norma Shearer, directed by George Cukor.

The DVDs come with commentaries, cartoons and assorted bonuses.

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