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Starring: Mekhi Phifer, Josh Hartnett, Julia Stiles, Andrew Keegan, and Martin Sheen
Directed by: Tim Blake Nelson
Synopsis: Shakespeare's Othello is retold in modern slang and set in the world of high school basketball. Odin James is the only black student in a rich preppy school, but he is also the school's basketball superstar and is dating the Dean's daughter. Hugo, Odin's supposed best friend is the film's villain. Hugo is jealous over the affection that his father, the coach, gives to Odin over him. Hugo (brilliantly played by Hatrtnett) cleverly plays both sides as he manipulates, Odin into believing that Desi is cheating on him. The events spiral out of control into a tragic climax.
My thoughts: Despite that Shakespeare's tragedies don't really appeal to me, this work shows that Shakespeare is still relevant in today's society. The issues tackled (interracial relationships, violence in high school, rejection and bitterness) were done so profoundly well and the director never loses focus. The only thing that was a minor turnoff was the heavy rap music soundtrack.
Score: 9 out of 10