Romeo and Juliet is a tale recognized by virtually everyone around the world as the definitive love story. As with most classics, it has had its fair share of adaptations, some worthy and some not so much, each adding its own signature flavor to the mix. Romeo x Juliet is one such adaptation, reworking the classic play into an anime to fit a more fantasy based setting while still retaining the characteristics that brought it so much acclaim.
Right off the bat, the show seeks to differentiate itself, beginning with the slaughter of the majority of the Capulet family, leaving only Juliet alive as the sole heir and leader to the house of Capulet. Whereas the original had no real antagonist, Lord Montague is clearly defined as such, taking control of the floating city of Neo-Verona and installing himself as prince; all the while hunting down and slaying those loyal to the Capulets much to the chagrin of his son Romeo.
Perhaps the most notable discrepancy between this and the source material is the retooling of Juliet’s character. Gone is the doting girl whose sole desire was that of Romeo, instead replaced by a strong courageous warrior who fights to bring justice and peace back to the country. Half the time she is on screen, she is masquerading as a boy to hide her identity. The show does an exceptional job of displaying her inner turmoil. An obvious sadness fills her core as she struggles with what is right and what she desires.
Every character is updated or revisioned from their classic counterparts to fit the overall setting; everyone that is, oddly enough, except Romeo who remains the aloof teen who can’t help but lose himself in his dreams.
On the technical side of things, animation is handled admirably by Studio Gonzo. Backgrounds are wonderfully exquisite and costumes impressively detailed. The first episode features fluid movements in both clothes and hair, if slightly exaggerated. Sadly, the quality diminishes soon after, falling just short of the standard for which Gonzo is known.
Music is composed by Hitoshi Sakimoto, who is best known for his work on the popular Final Fantasy franchise. His handling of the orchestral pieces is masterful, ably setting the tone with serene and melancholy melodies that occasionally explode when the action picks up.
As is usual for a show distributed by Funimation, liberties are taken with the script; the most apparent of which is the use of Shakespearian dialogue, with is never constant, being thrown around inexplicably for no apparent reason than to reference the original work.
In terms of voice work, Brina Palencia steals the show with her rendition of Juliet. When masquerading as a boy, she convincingly manages to shift her vocal performance in a more masculine direction without losing any of the emotional weight of the script.
Regardless of your feelings towards Shakespeare’s original work, this series should be evaluated as its own entity. It captures the essence of Romeo and Juliet’s drama while reinterpreting it for a more modern audience making it a welcome addition to the classic’s mythos.
Romeo x Juliet: the Romeo Collection - B
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