Watch The Tempest

The Tempest is a contemporary adaptation of William Shakespeare's play, directed by Phyllida Lloyd and starring Harriet Walter as Prospero and Sheila Atim as Ariel. Set in a women's prison, the film follows Prospero, a former theatre director who has been imprisoned for a crime she did not commit, as she seeks revenge on those who wronged her.

The story begins with Prospero, an inmate in the prison, reciting lines from The Tempest to a group of fellow inmates. She uses the play to explore themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and redemption, drawing parallels between Shakespeare's characters and the inmates around her. As the play progresses, Prospero begins to lose her grip on reality, believing that she has the power to control the prison and the people within it.

As the film unfolds, we see Prospero using her knowledge of the prison and its inmates to manipulate those around her. She seeks revenge on those who betrayed her, using Ariel, a fellow inmate who she sees as her loyal servant, to carry out her plans. However, as the film progresses, Prospero begins to question her motives, and we see her struggling to come to terms with her past and find a way to move on.

The film is visually stunning, with the cast and crew making use of the unique setting to create a powerful and evocative atmosphere. The prison is shown as a bleak and oppressive place, with the women trapped inside struggling to find meaning and purpose in their lives. The use of Shakespearean text in a modern setting is also highly effective, and the film does a great job of exploring the themes and ideas of the original play while bringing them into the present day.

Harriet Walter is excellent as Prospero, bringing a depth and complexity to the character that is rarely seen in Shakespearean adaptations. She manages to convey the character's bitterness and anger while also showing her vulnerability and humanity. Sheila Atim is also terrific as Ariel, lending the character a sense of dangerous otherworldliness that is both chilling and mesmerising.

Overall, The Tempest is a highly engaging and thought-provoking film that will appeal to fans of Shakespeare and contemporary drama alike. Its use of a women's prison setting is highly effective, highlighting the struggles faced by those trapped within the system and the importance of seeking redemption and forgiveness. With its superb cast and stunning visuals, The Tempest is a true cinematic gem that is not to be missed.