Opened: October 11, 2013

Directed by: Carlo Carlei

Starring: Douglas Booth, Hailee Steinfeld, Damian Lewis, Natascha McElhone, Ed Westwick, Nathalie Rapti Gomez, Lesley Manville, Tom Wisdom, Tomas Arana, Laura Morante, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Christian Cooke, Anton Alexander, Leon Vitali, Paul Giamatti & Stellan Skarsgård

When filming one of the greatest love stories of all-time, it’s crucial for the leads to have undeniable chemistry. In this version of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, the lovers lack passion, and the story is therefore not affecting.

The Houses of Capulet and Montague have long battled so when Romeo Montague (Douglas Booth) and Juliet Capulet (Hailee Steinfeld) fall for each other, their love becomes forbidden. Friar Lawrence (Paul Giamatti) helps unite the couple, but a series of unfortunate events leads to much sorrow for their families.

Booth is a striking Romeo, but his performance rests on his looks. Steinfeld is a lovely Juliet in her own scenes, but she and Booth never seem to strike it off.

Despite this, the film is beautifully done with gorgeous sets and stunning costumes.

Final say: Much woe for Juliet and her Romeo. ★★★☆☆