Commemorating 400 Years Since First Folio: Shakespeare Portrait Ascends to the Edge of Space
Marking 400 years since the First Folio, a portrait of Shakespeare voyages to the edge of space, symbolizing the enduring global impact of the iconic playwright
William Shakespeare's impact on the world remains steadfast even after four centuries since the esteemed playwright embarked on his career. In recognition of the enduring significance of Shakespeare's writings, British filmmaker Jack Jewers has sent a portrait of Shakespeare and a passage from one of his most renowned works to the outer limits of the Earth's atmosphere. This commemoration coincides with the 400th anniversary of the publication of Shakespeare's "First Folio" on November 8, 1623.
Around seven years after his death, approximately 1,000 copies of the folio titled "Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories & Tragedies" were printed. This extensive volume, consisting of over 900 pages, contained a compilation of 36 plays. According to Reuters, the absence of this folio would have resulted in the loss of 18 plays, including the renowned "Macbeth."
As mentioned in a press release from inVerse Films, a portrait, along with a recitation from "A Midsummer Nights Dream," was sent to the upper atmosphere of Earth. This was accomplished by attaching the portrait to a weather balloon equipped with a camera and GPS tracker. The assistance of Sent Into Space, an aerospace company, was enlisted to facilitate the space flight.
The scene was captured for the short film "Lovers and Madmen," where a youthful lady participates in an art competition by striving to launch a portrait of Shakespeare into the sky.
Narrated by English actor Tom Baker, renowned for his role as the fourth Doctor in "Doctor Who," he recites Shakespeare's "More strange than true" monologue from "A Midsummer Night's Dream" as visuals of the Earth's horizon transitioning into outer space are displayed, as mentioned in the release.
Filmmaker Jack Jewers has created a series of six shorts that breathe new life into Shakespeare's beloved speeches and poems, marking a momentous anniversary.
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"I envisioned an exquisite portrayal of Shakespeare, the acclaimed playwright whose timeless creations resonate with individuals from all walks of life. This captivating image would portray him against the backdrop of space, accentuated by the mesmerizing curvature of the earth. What better way to honor the universal appeal of our shared human experience than through this artistic homage, depicting how these remarkable words have captivated hearts for four centuries?" said Jewers in the release.
Short film "Our Revels Now Are Ended" draws on Shakespeare's "The Tempest" to explore the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, including themes of loneliness and isolation.
inVerse Films
The films also delve into the significance of Shakespeare's words in the year 2023, the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic, Russia's conflict in Ukraine, and the challenges faced by immigration and the refugee crisis in Europe, as mentioned by inVerse Films.
Based on Shakespeare's "The Tempest," the film entitled "Our Revels Now Are Ended" examines the feelings of loneliness and social isolation during the pandemic, as well as the sense of freedom and the joy of reconnecting with loved ones once the lockdowns were lifted.
Jewers stated that the events of the past few years, including mass disease, immigration concerns, protests, conflicts in Europe, and a growing urge to challenge authority and speak truthfully to power, are strikingly similar to what was happening in 1623 when the First Folio was published. He further emphasized that Shakespeare's words are even more impactful today and have the ability to deeply resonate with our modern lives.
The movies will be accessible online after their premiere screening in London on Wednesday.
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