The Tragedy of Macbeth dir. by Joel Coen (review).

This article analyzes Joel Coen's 2021 film adaptation of Shakespeare's *Macbeth*, focusing on the character of Ross, portrayed by Alex Hassell. Unlike the original play, where Ross is a straightforward messenger, Coen's film presents him as a mysterious, omnipresent figure whose ambiguous motives and secretive actions—such as lying to Macduff about his family's fate and his involvement in key events—add complexity and tension to the narrative. The film also offers a nuanced portrayal of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, played by Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand, emphasizing their mature, reflective relationship rather than youthful ambition. Coen's adaptation highlights the enigmatic aspects of the original text without resolving them, inviting viewers to engage with the play's ambiguities and character motivations beyond the film's conclusion.