FATHER LAURENCE By Mairi, Olivia and Cassidy

The importance of Father Laurence in the film. Father Laurence plays one of the most important roles in the film. He is the character who tries to bring both Montague and Capulet parties together in harmony. He does this by encouraging Romeo, son of Lord Montague and Juliet, daughter of Lord Capulet to marry. He helps the audience to understand more about Romeo and Juliet individually. Father Laurence doesn’t fight for Capulet or Montague meaning he is neutral and very powerful. Both parties can trust him and have faith that he will keep his word. This is proved by Romeo going to him to marry him and Juliet together.

How Father Laurence changes: Father Laurence changes his perspective toward the Capulet's and Montague's. When Romeo initially tells him that he is in love with Juliet, Father doesn't believe him and says “young men’s love ten lies not truly in their hearts, but in their eyes”. But he marries them because he thinks that the marriage would end the feud between the two houses. When they are about to be married, Father tells Romeo that he thinks they are moving too quickly. Even though it is the wrong thing to do, he marries them with the slight bit of sake that the families will reunite.

Key Quotes that Father Laurence says in the film: "For this alliance made so happy prove to turn your households rancor to pure love.” "Be plain, good son, and homely in thy drift; Riddling confession finds but riddling shift.” "Wisely and slow; they stumble that run fast.” "Hence from Verona art thou banished: Be patient, for the world is broad and wide.” "Who bare my letter, then, to Romeo” "You say you do not know the lady's mind. Uneven is the course. I like it not.” "These violent delights have violent ends and in their triumph die, like fire and powder, which, as they kiss, consume. The sweetest honey is loathsome in his own deliciousness and in the taste confounds the appetite. Therefore love moderately. Long love doth so. Too swift arrives as tardy as too slow."

Father Laurence’s relationships:

Father Laurence’s costumes through the film He wears a long sleeved black top, with a sole and white sash over the top, (the typical priest outfit). When Father Laurence is not working he tends to wear simple and comfortable clothing. He sometimes goes topless when it is hot in Verona or if he is not working.

Father Laurence and a famous person Mahatma Gandhi and Father Laurence’s similarities. Who is Mahatma Gandhi? Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was the leader of the Indian nationalism in British-ruled India. He strongly believed in nonviolent civil disobedience. Gandhi led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. What are the similarities? Both peace makers Had many that admired them Religious Trustworthy Wise and Knowledgeable Both leaders share very similar traits. Even though they may strongly believe in very different things the similarities stand out. Father Laurence is definitely one of the main peace makers in the film, he believed that he needed to take a stand. Peace making is one of Ghandis strong triats aswell. The two people come from totally different back grounds, different religions, and different times but the movies proves to audience that both have a strong similar connection.

10 camera shots of Father Laurence Close-up: Father Laurence giving Romeo the poison. A close-up is effective for this because it emphasises the danger of the poison, and Friar Laurence’s emotions. Mid-shot: This is showing that Father Laurence has a rebellious side to him, because not often do you see a priest with a tattoo. High angle shot: It is showing the power that Father has, he doesn’t come across as someone to be dominant, because he is sly. He has all sorts of potions.

More camera shots…. Mid Shot : This shot of Father Laurence and Virgin Mary shows the audience how significant religion is to Father Laurence. The shot allows the audience to see all facial expressions of him but also be able to see his priest outfit and Virgin Mary over his shoulder. It portrays that Virgin Mary is looking after him or guiding him with his decision of trying to bring peace to Verona. Mid shot: This shot signifies Father Laurence’s power within the church. Since he is in the centre eyes draw on his immediately, but also the boys on his left and right which symbolize the younger generation learning from the elder. It shows the audience that he is confident and respected by others.