Merchant of Venice

A FILM BY Michael Radford

An important, timeless and sometimes troublesome classic has been filmed successfully and at long last.

- Sid Smith, Chicago Tribune

Shakespeare's most problematic play at least with respect to modern sensitivities receives an intelligent interpretation from Michael Radford and a superb cast.

- A.O Scott, New York Times

This is one of the best adaptations of Shakespeare I?ve ever seen. Pacino?s amazing.

- Richard Roeper, Ebert & Roeper

Synopsis

Set in 16th century Venice, Shakespeare’s timeless comedy/drama follows the fates and fortunes of a group of Christian noblemen and their interactions with the Jewish moneylender Shylock. Antonio (Jeremy Irons) borrows money from Shylock (Al Pacino) to help his young penniless friend Bassanio (Joseph Fiennes) in his quest to win the hand of the fair Portia (Lynn Collins). Bitter at Antonio’s insults, Shylock stipulates very specific terms if he defaults on the loan. As Antonio’s shipping business is devastated by storms, Shylock is further angered by his daughter’s elopement with the nobleman Lorenzo (Charlie Cox). The loan falls due and Shylock claims his forfeit in the form of a pound of Antonio’s flesh. As Bassanio desperately tries to save Antonio from this fate, miraculous help comes from an unexpected quarter.