BBC Shakespeare: The Merchant of Venice

The 1980 BBC Television adaptation of "The Merchant of Venice" is a one-of-a-kind rendition of one of William Shakespeare’s most acclaimed plays. This production, as part of the BBC's Shakespeare series, incorporated the works of the legendary playwright into accessible television features while maintaining the originality and profound nature of the scripts. It stars John Franklyn-Robbins, John Rhys-Davies, and Alan David, among other brilliant actors, all of whom contribute to a memorable and striking performance that imbues the tale with new life.

This film presents timeless themes and elements that show the tragicomic narrative of this Shakespearean classic in a sublime manner. This production takes advantage of the nuances of the television format, combining close-ups, dramatic cutaways, and scenic designs that underline the emotional currents of the play. It is directed by Jack Gold and produced by Cedric Messina, Jonathan Miller and Shaun Sutton.

The setting is in the ever-enigmatic, beautiful, and bustling city of Venice, famed as an important commercial hub and prosperous city-state in the 16th century. This underpins the essence of the story which involves the complex world of commerce, contractual agreements and matters of love and hate.

John Franklyn-Robbins plays Antonio, the "merchant of Venice," who finds himself caught in a legal bind due to a loan agreement he signs with Shylock, enacted by Alan David. Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, is largely despised due to his religion and profession – a point emphasized considerably throughout the play. Alan David captures the complexity of Shylock, presenting a character oscillating between decency and vengeance, offering an intriguing dive into Shakespeare's critique of otherness and prejudice.

John Rhys-Davies portrays Salerio - a responsible Venetian official and friend of Antonio's who acts as an intermediary and peacemaker in various disputes which arise. To witness the highly skilled Rhys-Davies in a Shakespearean setting offers viewers a unique and stimulating experience.

The storyline of "The Merchant of Venice" is not all business, betrayals, and legal battles; love flourishes under unlikely circumstances when it comes to Portia and Bassanio. Portia, brought to life by Gemma Jones, is a wealthy woman subject to the whims of her late father's will, which dictates the choice of her suitor. Bassanio, a friend of Antonio who is smitten with Portia, is played with a sweet earnestness by John Nettles.

The performance is laced skillfully with elements of tension, romance, humor as well as moral questioning. The film aptly flows and keeps pace with the original verse while ensuring accessibility and comprehension for audiences not overly familiar with the Shakespearean style. The characters' development are well executed, and each scene is staged to provide deeper insight into their motivations and emotions.

This adaptation also pays great attention to recreating costumes and sets for an arresting visual experience. The dress, artefacts, and architecture, true to the setting and time period, reinforce the effect of stepping back into a different era. This attention to detail supports the overall credibility of the story and allows viewers to be fully absorbed in the story and atmosphere.

The 1980 BBC adaptation of "The Merchant of Venice" is superb for those desiring an introduction to Shakespeare's world or for the seasoned Shakespeare enthusiast. It strikes an excellent balance between maintaining the integrity of the original work and reinventing it to a medium that could captivate a wider audience. Most impressive are the memorable performances by the cast who brought an impeccable depth of character, enhancing the richness of the original play. This is indeed a must-watch for lovers of drama, classic literature, and compelling storytelling. Be sure to have your expectations exceeded as you immerse yourself in the gripping and timeless story that is the “Merchant of Venice.”