Deemed as one of Shakespeare's most tragic plays, 'MacBeth' ventures deep within the dark side of human nature. What makes Shakespeare's plays successful is that the themes behind them are still relevant in today's society. Two directors, Polanski and Freestone, have tried to recapture the story of MacBeth through the use of film. A comparison between the two separate versions can be found in scenes such the 'killing of King Duncan' scene. While Polanski has decided to truly reflect human nature, Freestone wanted to recapture the general storyline without too much manipulation of the text, but creative visuals. This comparison reflects the director's interpretation of the play, and their view behind the theme of the play.


A more political approach was used in Polanski's version of the play. This is highlighted by King Duncan's crown, which he wore in his sleep. When MacBeth first struck Duncan, a cut away of the crown falling to the ground was used. Not until the death of Duncan did the crown stop spinning. This symbolises the political decline of King Duncan, and the royal beginning for MacBeth. The impression of MacBeth's motives in Polanski's version is that he was only killing Duncan for Political reasons. Polanski has deliberately intended this to add an 'only business' attitude to the scene, maintaining realism and human nature. Freestone intentions to recreate the general storyline were clear as he uses religion as opposed to politics. As religion was a big part of society back then, he shows Lady MacBeth wearing a cross, and more importantly, gives King Duncan a God like appearance.


It is extremely obvious that Polanski's film contains more gore than freestones film. When Polanski's MacBeth is striking Duncan with the dagger, the penetration of the dagger into Duncan's body is not discrete. More bloody violence is further...