Antigone [DVD]

The magnificent performance of young Genevieve Bujold as Antigone, complemented by those of Fritz Weaver as Creon and Stacy Keach as the Chorus are the main reasons to purchase this DVD of the English version of Jean Anouilh's persuasive interpretation of Sophocles' tragedy--a drama that is so timeless in its theme of the tension between the laws of personal integrity and the laws of the state, that the modern version could have been produced originally during the Nazi occupation of France without consequences. Bujold conveys the protagonist's vulnerable impetuousness, stubbornness, and--as she "becomes Antigone" in the tragic sense of the term--defiance, and finally fear as she recognizes the reality of the consequences of her actions.The furies, however, should pursue the shades of whoever decided to colorize this production, causing the characters themselves to be pursued by hovering haloes--or rather blobs--of ineptly applied tints and shades. If one can adjust the television to black-and-white, by all means do so. Unfortunately little can be done about the wobbly piano tones that overwhelm the dialogue at the the beginning of the play--and which thankfully cease after the first scene--indicating that the DVD may have been lifted from an aging VHS tape.If one is going to use this film in the classroom, I would suggest that students read the script (after reading a good translation of the Sophoclean original), and that the instructor show excerpts, such as Stacy Keach's monologue on the differences between melodrama and tragedy; the confrontation between Antigone and Creon; and the scene in which Antigone is being conducted down to her death.There are many reasons to purchase this flawed DVD, even though it does not do justice either to Anouilh's drama or to the actors: to witness performances which would otherwise vanish from our consciousness; for historical interest; and to demonstrate how the moral dilemmas of Greek myth and tragedy can be interpreted with infinite variation because of their timelessness as well as their persuasiveness in the expression of universal truths.

It was a treat to re-view this gripping TV production of "Antigone" from the 1970s starring Genevieve Bujold and Fritz Weaver. The centerpiece of the story is the confrontation between the passionate and idealistic Antigone who is challenging the authority of the older ruler, King Creon. There is a sustained 25-30 minute segment of their mental gymnastics which is absolutely riveting; both Bujold and Weaver are at the top of their game. When I saw it in my teens it made a great impression and I related to Antigone's youthful passion. When I watched it in 2013 I could see the dilemma and tragedy of Creon. The color is washed out and the narration by Stacy Keach as the Greek Chorus is a bit mannered. Also, this is a very stage-bound production with only the essential players in sparsely furnished interiors. Yet, for me, the central conflict and resolution were brilliantly conveyed. "Antigone" hasn't survived for 2,400 years for nothing. This production of Jean Anouilh's modern interpretation is certainly worth the $3 for rental/viewing. I recommend it for those who love the classics and great acting.

Jean Anouilh's play is a brilliant contest between the strong-willed Antigone and her equally strong-willed uncle, Creon. Genevieve Bujold is unforgettable as she brings Antigone to forceful life. Fritz Weaver is her equal in strength and determination to follow ideals of honor even unto the inevitable tragic end. This is the stuff that Anouilh -- who wrote "Beckett" -- is a master at. I saw this production on television years ago and have never forgotten it. How ecstatic I was to find that the performance has been preserved on disc. If you marveled at Bujold in her Academy Award-winning performance as "Anne of the Thousand Days," you will be left breathless by her Antigone. Unforgettable!

What a treat to find this available for viewing after 40 years! I saw this on television as a girl, and although I had forgotten details, I remembered what a powerful impact Genevieve's character had on me. I really identified with her courage and fire, and it was such a pleasure to connect with this after so long. Oddly enough, I found myself feeling sorry for Creon-- that certainly wasn't the case the first time! Amazing what a few years under your belt can do!

The debate between Creon and Antigone is intense and makes up for the poor video quality. Note to teachers, this is worth showing to classes who are reading the Sophocles play, though the differences are more useful than the similarities--especially the role of the chorus.

It was moderately okay. The fact that my 30 day rental lasted one is a bit of a problem, but whatcha gonna do when nobody answers a phone anymore?

Good play with excellent acting.

While this may be an artistic triumph for the actors, it is worthless as a teaching tool. My tenth graders were bored and didn't understand much of what was going on even though we had read and discussed the play in class. Most of them went to sleep, that is the ones who were not talking and ignoring the video. This purchase was money wasted by me.

The original performance is excellent, but the recording quality on the DVD falls short. It looks like the DVD has been mastered from a video tape.

This is a tricky one!I desperately need this for my sons A level classics and had read the other reviews an thought it would do nicely. However, if you are looking for a PURE retelling of the play - this is not the one.There is a lot of artistic licence ! The change in era is not an issue. The acting is ok - some performing better than others - however it is really dated and there is a tinge of overacting. BUT this is good to get a modern feel for the play is an accessible way. Be aware that this was taped using video and looks like it on our HD screens.