The Merchant of Venice Poster

The Merchant of Venice 2022

110 min📅 2022-02-19

Abigail Graham's striking 2022 film adaptation of Shakespeare's *The Merchant of Venice* breathes fresh life into the classic tragedy through its intimate, candlelit staging in the Globe's Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.

Director: Abigail Graham

Cast

Adrian Schiller
Adrian Schiller
Shylock
Michael Gould
Michael Gould
Antonio
Michael Marcus
Michael Marcus
Bassanio
Sophie Melville
Portia
Eleanor Wyld
Eleanor Wyld
Jessica
Raymond Anum
Raymond Anum
Gratiano
Tripti Tripuraneni
Tripti Tripuraneni
Nerissa
Daniel Bowerbank
Lorenzo / Prince of Morocco
Aaron Vodovoz
Aaron Vodovoz
Launcelot Gobbo
Ben Caplan
Ben Caplan
Prince of Arragon / Duke / Solanio

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Merchant of Venice (2022) about?

This contemporary adaptation of Shakespeare's controversial play re-examines the story of Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, and his daughter Jessica through a raw, emotionally charged lens. Set in the intimate Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, the film strips away the grandeur of traditional stagings to focus on the human drama beneath the legal and moral conflicts.

Who directed The Merchant of Venice?

Abigail Graham helmed this bold 2022 adaptation, bringing her fresh perspective to Shakespeare's timeless tale through an intimate, candlelit production.

Who stars in The Merchant of Venice?

The film features powerhouse performances from Adrian Schiller as Shylock, Eleanor Wyld as Jessica, Michael Gould, Sophie Melville, and Raymond Anum in pivotal roles.

Is The Merchant of Venice (2022) worth watching?

With its emotionally charged performances and Abigail Graham's inventive direction, this adaptation offers a compelling take on Shakespeare's classic. While divisive in its approach, it's a must-see for fans of live theater and those interested in modern interpretations of enduring stories. The Guardian praised its 'heart-wrenching' impact, making it a standout choice for discerning audiences.

How long is The Merchant of Venice?

The film runs for 110 minutes, offering a tight, immersive experience that captures the intensity of the live production.

🎥 Trailer

About The Merchant of Venice (2022) — Abigail Graham's Candlelit Shakespeare Revival

Abigail Graham's striking 2022 film adaptation of Shakespeare's *The Merchant of Venice* breathes fresh life into the classic tragedy through its intimate, candlelit staging in the Globe's Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. Graham's contemporary reimagining shifts the spotlight onto Shylock (Adrian Schiller) and Jessica (Eleanor Wyld), allowing their complex, often heart-wrenching narratives to unfold with raw intensity. Filmed live, the production captures the play's timeless themes of justice, prejudice, and redemption against a backdrop of flickering light and shadow, deepening the emotional resonance of Shakespeare's controversial masterpiece.

The Merchant of Venice (2022) stands out for its bold, emotionally charged performances and Graham's visionary direction, which strips away the distance of traditional stagings to reveal the human cost beneath Shakespeare's words. With a runtime of 110 minutes, this adaptation is a visceral experience—one that challenges audiences to confront the play's darker corners while celebrating its enduring power to provoke thought and discussion.