Titus MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -4

In this adaptation of one of Shakespeares lesser known plays, Roman general Titus Andronicus (Anthony Hopkins) returns from battle to bury 21 of his 25 sons. He has captured Tamora (Jessica Lange), queen of the Goths, her three sons, and her servant. Titus quickly kills Tamoras eldest son in ritual sacrifice. But Titus returns to an even more volatile political situation. The emperor has died and his two sons are fighting for rights to the throne. When the Senate unexpectedly names Titus as emperor, he refuses in favor of the eldest son, Saturnine (Alan Cumming). Saturnine soon marries the seductive prisoner Tamora, and when she realizes her newfound freedom, plans her revenge on Titus. Her servant, Aaron the Moor (Harry J. Lennix), aids in her vengeful plot. The amazing technical elements give the film a distinctive look and feel with unique sets and costumes. From one of the great literary figures of all time, the story is compelling and intriguing. However, Shakespeares works, particularly violent tragedies, dont always bring in the crowds.

TITUS sometimes leaves the drama category and becomes a black comedy. Several times, Shakespeare cleverly weaves jokes and light-hearted moments into the midst of incredibly disturbing circumstances. Like the movie PULP FICTION, this becomes uncomfortable as the viewer is torn between disgust and laughter. Adapting one of Shakespeares most violent works, director Julie Taymor fills the movie with plenty of sickening moments. For example, one scene shows a womans hands cut off and her tongue cut out. When she is found, twigs replace her hands and massive amounts of blood drain from her mouth as she tries to speak. To heighten the appearance of decadence in the imperial court, the movie adds a disgusting orgy scene showing various male and female nudity. More disturbing is the graphic presentation of an unconventional sex act, although without explicit nudity. This incredibly violent, and sometimes sexually graphic, adaptation of Shakespeares classic tale of bloody revenge condemns the evils of warfare, but also fills scenes with unacceptable images.

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: Fox Searchlight, 10201 W. Pico Blvd., LA, CA 90035