Measure for Measure (2019 film)

Measure for Measure is a 2019 Australian drama film directed by Paul Ireland, based on William Shakespeare's play of the same name. The film transposes the setting of the play to the public housing estates of Melbourne, Australia, focusing on themes of justice, mercy, and power within a modern multicultural context.

The plot follows Claudio, a young Muslim man, who falls in love with Isabella, a devout Catholic woman. Their relationship is complicated by racial tensions and gang warfare in their neighborhood. When Claudio is arrested for impregnating Isabella's friend, he is threatened with execution by Angelo, a corrupt and ambitious police officer seeking to impose strict law and order. Isabella appeals to Angelo for mercy, leading to a dangerous game of power and manipulation, reflecting the core themes of Shakespeare's original work.

The film stars Hugo Weaving as Angelo, Megan Smart as Isabella, and Harrison Gilbertson as Claudio. Significant supporting roles are played by Daniel Henshall and Mark Leonard Winter.

Measure for Measure explores themes of religious and cultural prejudice, systemic injustice, and the abuse of authority in a contemporary urban environment. It was generally well-received by critics for its performances, particularly Weaving's portrayal of Angelo, and for its successful adaptation of Shakespeare's text to a modern Australian setting. However, some critics found the adaptation heavy-handed or that the film lacked the subtlety of the original play.