In a world where adaptations of classic tales seem to multiply every decade, the latest twist on William Shakespeare's iconic Romeo and Juliet is gearing up for its theatrical debut. Titled Juliet & Romeo, this film promises to deliver a fresh perspective on the age-old story of star-crossed lovers, set against a backdrop of pop music and medieval intrigue.
Initially announced in early 2023 as Verona's Romeo & Juliet, the film was poised to explore the "real-life 1301 story that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet" with a Christmas release. However, after a long silence, it resurfaced in May 2024 with a new release date set for Valentine's Day 2025. Fast forward to this week, and the film has finally unveiled its trailer, along with a new date for its theatrical release: American Mother's Day, May 9, 2025.
Gone is the original title, and with it, the suggestion of a trilogy. The press release now refers to Juliet & Romeo as a potential franchise, hinting that more could be on the horizon, depending on its success. The film is set in 1301, at the end of the medieval era, and aims to turn the traditional narrative upside down.
In a bold departure from Shakespeare's text, the film's synopsis hints at a story that reveals the truth behind the legendary lovers, while leaving behind the poetry of iambic pentameter for contemporary pop music. "The greatest love story of all time, set to the greatest music of our time," the synopsis declares. The ensemble cast features Broadway veterans Jason Isaacs as Lord Montague and Rebel Wilson as Lady Capulet, alongside Clara Rugaard as Juliet and Jamie Ward as Romeo.
Other notable cast members include Ferdia Walsh-Peelo as Tybalt, Rupert Graves as Prince Escalus, and Derek Jacobi as The Friar. The film is written and directed by Timothy Scott Bogart, with his brother Evan Kidd Bogart overseeing the original soundtrack. Fans of the genre are eagerly anticipating how this new adaptation will resonate with audiences, especially as adaptations of Shakespeare's works have seen a resurgence in recent years.
Meanwhile, Rebel Wilson, who is making headlines not just for her role in Juliet & Romeo but also for her personal life, recently appeared on The Jonathan Ross Show. During the show, she revealed that her two-year-old daughter, Royce, whom she welcomed via surrogacy in 2022 with her wife Ramona Agruma, is living up to her high-end name. Wilson humorously expressed regret over naming her daughter after the luxury car brand Rolls-Royce, saying, "I probably shouldn't have named her after a British luxury car brand, she's a bit high maintenance."
Wilson shared that her daughter has already developed some demanding habits, such as insisting on foot massages before bed. "I was doing it last night for almost an hour," she confessed. The actress's candid remarks about motherhood provided a light-hearted contrast to her upcoming film role.
In a fascinating twist of fate, Wilson also recounted a memorable encounter with Brad Pitt at the Oscars in 2020. While dressed as a cat for her role in the film Cats, she invited Pitt to join her in her dressing room. "He needed a moment… I said, 'I've got to get dressed as a cat, do you want to come with me?'" Wilson recalled, adding that Pitt graciously accepted her invitation.
As if her plate wasn't full enough, Wilson also discussed her role in Juliet & Romeo during the show, describing it as a pop musical take on the classic tale. She noted, "They've flipped it a little bit. If you love the classic story you've got that… but with a kind of different ending." Unlike the original, where both lovers tragically die, Wilson hinted that in Juliet & Romeo, they may or may not live at the end.
Isaacs, who also made an appearance on The Jonathan Ross Show, expressed his desire for his role in White Lotus to be recognized for more than just its controversial nude scene. "The show is so fabulous, seems a bit odd to talk about my d** the whole time," he remarked, pushing back against the focus on his character's revealing moment. Isaacs, best known for his role as Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter series, also suggested that actor Danny Dyer could take over the role in an upcoming TV adaptation.
As the film industry continues to evolve, Juliet & Romeo stands at the intersection of tradition and modernity, promising a unique experience for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and new audiences alike. The combination of a beloved narrative, a talented cast, and a contemporary soundtrack could very well lead to a resurgence of interest in Shakespeare's works, especially among younger viewers.
With its official release date set for May 9, 2025, anticipation is building for Juliet & Romeo*. Will it succeed in captivating hearts and redefining a classic? Only time will tell, but with a fresh take on a timeless story, it is sure to be a topic of discussion in the months to come.
