The Tempest (2010)

In this enthralling reimagining of Shakespeare's fantastical thriller, "The Tempest", the talented Director, Writer, and Producer Julie Taymor crafts a captivating narrative where the traditionally male protagonist, Prospero, takes on female form as Prospera, portrayed by the formidable Dame Helen Mirren. This transformation brings a profound resonance to her journey of vengeance and self-discovery, deeply rooted in the era when women practicing alchemy were often accused of witchcraft. Banished by her treacherous brother, Prospera and her young daughter are set adrift on a ship, eventually finding themselves on an uninhabited island. Bereft of societal constraints, Prospera evolves from mother to father figure for her daughter, Miranda (Felicity Jones), creating a world where intellect, not brawn, dictates the balance of power. In this isolated realm, Prospera orchestrates a grand conspiracy involving spirits, monsters, a grieving king, a wise councillor, and two deceitful brothers. She stirs the lives of two unsuspecting lovers with a storm at sea, banishment, sorcery, and shipwreck, weaving their destinies into her strategic web. This island, a tabula rasa, becomes the stage for a riveting struggle between Prospera and the island's native inhabitant, Caliban (Djimon Hounsou). As the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of an entrancing volcanic landscape, Prospera's quest culminates in a poignant act of love and forgiveness. She breaks her magical staff, marking the end of an epic tale that is as mystical as it is compelling. Julie Taymor's "The Tempest" serves as a cinematic translation of Shakespeare's classic, offering a stirring exploration of power, betrayal, and redemption for our times.

The Tempest is a drama movie featuring Helen Mirren and directed by Julie Taymor.

It is possible to buy The Tempest on AMC on Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.