Complete Works

Complete Works is a captivating, humorous, and competitive series developed by uStudio and originally aired in 2014. Directed by Adam North, this comedy-drama features a group talented actors including Joe Sofranko, Lili Fuller, and Reed Windle, whose combined performances help bring the story and characters to life. The show is a beautifully crafted blend of Shakespearian literature, unexpected comedy, and an accelerating contest, presenting itself as an engaging spectacle for all religious Shakespeare fans and also for those who are new to the world of the great Bard of Avon.

The plot of Complete Works revolves around the protagonist, Hal Evans, a small-town, Midwestern boy played by Joe Sofranko, who is obsessed with William Shakespeare's plays and sonnets. Hal’s world is turned upside down when he wins a prestigious fellowship to study in England, the land where his idol, Shakespeare, was born and created his universally admired works. As a student in England, Hal not only experiences a culture shock adjusting to a new country, but he also finds himself in the midst of a fiercely competitive environment, full of highly talented and ambitious individuals who share his passion for the Bard’s verses.

At the heart of the competition is the distinguished American Shakespeare Competition, a test of skill and understanding of Shakespeare’s works that is both prestigious and brutally challenging. The winner of the competition receives esteem, recognition, and college scholarships, making it alluring for all aspiring scholars of Shakespeare. Hal becomes embroiled in the contest, testing his knowledge, understanding, and interpretation of the Bard's works against his competitive peers. The show details Hal’s journey through the cutthroat environment, filled with grudges, alliances, rivalries, and betrayals, adding to the comedic drama of the series.

Complete Works presents the beauty and complexity of Shakespearian language and themes, modernizing them through its characters. These include the incredibly energetic eccentric professor Larry Craig, portrayed brilliantly by Brendan Bradley, and Hal’s antagonistic yet intelligent rival Paul Baker, played by Matthew Bellows. The talented Lili Fuller plays the independent and complex American student Kelsey Gordon, adding depth and tension to the show.

The show takes a deep dive into the resonating words of Shakespeare, bringing his timeless works to the forefront, and interpreting them in a modern setting which makes it unique and highly engaging. Its clever use of humor at times alleviates the intricacies of Shakespearian language, making it an enjoyable experience even for those unaccustomed to the language.

What truly sets Complete Works apart is that it aids the process of understanding William Shakespeare's writings without simplifying its elegance. It strikes a careful balance between the original text and its contemporary interpretation. Complete Works is, therefore, not just a comedy-drama but a crash course in Shakespearian literature, a rare fusion that showcases the relevance of the Bard’s work in our modern world.

Visually, the show utilizes aesthetic elements to portray the allure and grandeur of the British landscape, and also the sophisticated, yet intimidating aura of the academic setting. The cinematography blends well with the storyline, making the viewing experience immersive and entertaining.

Complete Works is not just a comedy series but an engaging and unique platform where Shakespeare’s works come alive through a vibrant cast of characters. The series encapsulates the essence of Shakespeare's writings, refashioned into relatable themes for today's viewership. Amidst the struggle, honor, and passion for Shakespeare and all his works, Complete Works ticks all the boxes of an ensemble comedy-drama, coupling academic rivalry with cultural adaptation, and delivering a delightful and enlightening viewing experience.

Overall, Complete Works makes an impressive mark as a show that transcends genres, offering viewership not merely a sitcom or a drama, but a compelling story about competition, the power of literature and the enduring influence of William Shakespeare. Engaging, entertaining and educational, it’s a series that makes a lasting impression, celebrating the works of the greatest English writer in history, in an idiom that viewers of all generations can relate to and enjoy.