The Taming of the Shrew
Italy, 16th century. Petruchio, a choleric, lying and poor rural landowner from Verona, arrives in Padua in search of fortune and a wife, while Baptista, a wealthy merchant, announces that he will not allow Bianca, his youngest daughter, to marry until the temperamental and unruly Katherina, his eldest daughter, does.
Critics Sentiment
Katherina delivers her controversial final speech on wifely obedience
The church service erupts into a wild carnival setting
The film builds steadily from its modest opening to peak with Kate's final speech, gaining nearly two full points in audience appreciation.
Critics praised this lavish adaptation for making Shakespeare accessible and entertaining, with Burton and Taylor's chemistry driving the film to increasingly positive reception. While some questioned the play's dated gender politics and Taylor's Shakespearean abilities, most found the visual spectacle and Burton's commanding performance made for compelling cinema. The film builds momentum throughout, culminating in widespread acclaim for the controversial but powerfully delivered finale.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 32
Elizabeth Taylor
Katharina
Richard Burton
Petruchio
Natasha Pyne
Bianca
Michael York
Lucentio
Cyril Cusack
Grumio
Michael Hordern
Baptista
Alfred Lynch
Tranio
Alan Webb
Gremio
Victor Spinetti
Hortensio
Roy Holder
Biondello
Mark Dignam
Vincentio
Bice Valori
The Widow
Giancarlo Cobelli
The Priest
Vernon Dobtcheff
Pedant
Ken Parry
Tailor
Anthony Gardner
Haberdasher
Tina Perna
Alberto Bonucci
Milena Vukotić
Alfredo Bianchini
Crew
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