Film Clips Comparison

I noticed a huge difference between the Othello film clips of 1965 and 1995. The acting in the 1965 clip was incredibly awkward and corny, in my opinion. All the characters seemed to do was yell at each other, and that distracted me from the progression of the storyline. The props were few; a door, a bed, and a curtain, and the costumes were basic colored cloth draped upon the actors. Also, the painted Othello was very distracting for me, I couldn't focus on what he was saying because I was in awe of how artificial-looking his skin was. Overall, the props nor the costumes enhanced the quality of the film.

While watching the 1965 clip after class, I immediately noticed how much more I like the 1995 clip. The actors' speech and volume in the film were more realistic and I could follow what they were saying without distraction. Also, the set was well decorated with a sufficient amount of props and the costumes looked more appropriate. My overall reaction was that I watched the 1995 clip without wanting it to end. I think the acting and materials used made the 1995 film a much better one.

Although I like the 1995 clip better, I do understand that there is a 30 year difference between when the two films were released. Film production has progressed immensely since 1965 and even since 1995, which I'm sure I will notice again after watching O in class next week. I think the filmmakers of 1965 used what they could for the Othello film and it was just unfortunate that the industry was not as advanced as it is now. Despite my negative opinion of the 1965 clip, I do believe that the filmmakers of 1965 put forth a strong effort in order to make the film.