source: The Taming of the Shrew

Moviecut—The Taming of the Shrew

The Taming of the Shrew

This infamous 1929 adaptation of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew is no unsung masterwork nor is it a cinematic gem, but it is much more pleasant than its bad reputation would imply. Pickford and Fairbanks are too old for their roles, but the level of ham in their performances make them a treat to watch. The camera-work is fluid, with many a tracking shot that belies the idea of all early sound cinema being static. The best aspect of this version is the interpretation of Kate as being in control of her relationship with Petruchio. She catches onto his game quickly and unwittingly "wears the pants," to use a problematic term. She plays the infamous final speech with tongue firmly in cheek and with a wink. The text has been slashed down to near nothing, as evidenced by the brief run time. However, it's an easier watch than the 1967 film.

Mary Pickford (as Katherine) and Douglas Fairbanks (as Petruchio) star in Sam Taylor's abridged version of William Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew". Ms. Pickford is best during the well-photographed Karl Struss storm, and post-storm, scenes; and, Mr. Fairbanks give the best overall performance in the picture. Pickford improves much upon her previous "Coquette"; and, Fairbanks proves himself a fine "talking" film actor. While relatively well-received, at the time of release, this "Shrew" fell considerably shy of being highly regarded. Still, for what it is, it's more enjoyable than embarrassing. Certainly, it should appeal to admirers of Pickford and Fairbanks. ***** The Taming of the Shrew (10/26/29) Sam Taylor ~ Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Edwin Maxwell, Geoffrey Wardwell

Just as an additional; comment to one of the earlier reviews - Channel 4 in England did show the original 1929 version of this film in the late 1980's. The print was in excellent shape and the lack of music did not greatly harm the film. Unfortunately although I taped it at the time I've since erased it and the public domain copy I bought later is the 1966 re-dubbed and cut version - which is not as good.

This is actually a pretty good film, especially for an early talkie. The camera moves, and moves well - the action is very rarely static. And there are quite a few good laughs. But Mary really is bad - she looks superb, but her acting consists of a strange little sideways pout and much declamation. She is like an over-grown Shirley Temple. But the treat here is Fairbanks' Petruchio - which may be the best Petruchio I have seen on stage or film. His boundless energy and simmering sexuality make this film live - he would have made a great talkie actor if producers had had faith in him. The film leaves little of Shakespeare's text in place, and all the other characters are reduced to nothing, but don't let that stop you enjoying it.