Source material
Shakespeare’s greatest play in my opinion that outclasses Hamlet by far. Even though there’s no love story, only politics, politics, politics.
Visuals
The minimalistic sets are super! Any period costumes, no matter how lavish, would never work so well. Especially impressive are the creeping lines on the wall that stood for sensational media headlines.
Mise-en-scene
Every frame was a treat! The way bodies were placed on the not-so-spacious stage and positioned against each other reminded me of some Baroque paintings Caravaggio in particular. If you saw his paintings you'll understand what I mean.
Body language
Pure visceral pleasure! Every gesture was so insanely appropriate, especially the aggressive movements of Coriolanus. Can’t imagine the amount of work that went into rehearsals.
Acting
Exemplary throughout! Unexpectedly I was ready to applaud the chauvinistic speech of the eponymous character because of the sheer passion the actor put into it. I also got REALLY mad at the Roman rabble because they were so realistically mean. And I haven’t even watched the second part of the production yet. I expect wonders from it!
Blank verse
Sheakespeare totally rocks! I often re-wound the speeches (and there are MANY of them!) just to enjoy the cadences of their voices – absolute music!
Message
I havent defined Coriolanus yet: what is he - a pure soul, a hero or a proto-fascist©?