Sonnet Variations: A Performance of Selected Sonnets by Shakespeare 2000
Distributed by Films for the Humanities and Sciences, P.O. Box 2053, Princeton, N.J. 08543; 800-257-5126
Produced by Hampden-Sydney College
Directed by James Schiffer
VHS, color, 46 min.
High School - Adult
Literature, Theater, Drama
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Roxann Bustos, Reese Library, Augusta State University, Augusta, GAThis collection of readings of twenty-nine of Shakespeare’s sonnets offers a fine selection of some of the best known of Shakespeare’s sonnets in varied performance settings, ranging from lovely pastoral locales to a bedroom. The innovative settings work well for some (e.g., Sonnet 130 as a comedy club routine) and less well for others (e.g., Sonnet 90 shouted out by a criminal as the police drag him away). The video groups the readings into sections (Prelude, The Young Friend, Vicissitudes of Love, Dark Lady, and Epilogue) which help to give some context to the poems.
The technical qualities of the video are high, but the performance quality varies considerably. Most of the performers appear to be college students, some more talented than others. Although not viewed by this reviewer, other similar videos offered by the Films for the Humanities & Sciences with professional actors appear to offer better value. The youthfulness of the performers and the unusual settings in Sonnet Variations might appeal to high school audiences.
The afterword with brief comments by Hampden-Sydney professor James Schiffer provides a few facts about the sonnets, pointing out how little we really know about them, as well as their enduring relevance.
Recommended for secondary school libraries.