FULL SYNOPSIS

Jacob Koskoff and Todd Louiso's visceral adaptation of Shakespeare's masterpiece Macbeth is one that emphasizes the potently cinematic aspects of the drama: the psychological torment, the brute eroticism, the supernatural horror. The genius of the poetry is faithfully preserved, but the story is translated into a purely cinematic experience told at a bullet-like pace rarely associated with Shakespeare's work.

Macbeth begins in the midst of a furious battle. It is the 11th Century, and the throne of Scotland is being threatened by insurrection. The rebel army is ruthless and powerful, but the Scottish forces are led by the greatest warrior on the battlefield: Macbeth.

In the delusional aftermath of his victory over the rebels, Macbeth encounters three odd women in the woods. These women prophesize that Macbeth will rise to be King of Scotland, though they add maddening limitations to this blessing. Lady Macbeth, when she hears of their future as foretold by the three women, proves herself to be the driving force behind her husband's more tentative ambitions. Together, they plot a murderous course that leads to madness and their own violent ruin.

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