An intimate and intense retelling of the Scottish play. Some stories never lose their power. William Shakespeare’s Macbeth still grips audiences with its themes of ambition, guilt, and fallout. The Macbeths, directed by Dominic Hill for Citizens Theatre and filmed with Urbancroft Films, distils the tragedy into a one hour, character led experience that zeroes in on the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.
A story stripped to its core
Using a radically cut version of Shakespeare’s text, the film unfolds entirely on and around the couple’s bed. The bedroom becomes sanctuary and prison. Every glance and hesitation lands with force. What begins as shared ambition unravels into paranoia, mistrust, and isolation.
From stage to screen
The production began life in the Citizens Theatre Circle Studio in 2017 and toured Scotland in 2018. In 2021 it was reimagined for film with Urbancroft Films so audiences could experience the work at home. Original cast members Charlene Boyd and Keith Fleming reunited for the screen version, carrying the same charged performances into a more intimate medium.
- Running time: 1 hour
- Content guidance: flashing imagery and distressing content
- Recommended age: 14+
Reviews
“For those who like their Shakespeare brilliant, concentrated, and brief, this version of The Macbeths offers a rare and thrilling treat.”
“Charlene Boyd and Keith Fleming as the deadly lovers bring a frankly terrifying erotic charge.”
“…a sweaty, erotic and breathlessly self destructive reimagining.”
Cast and creative
- Cast: Charlene Boyd, Keith Fleming
- Director: Dominic Hill
- Produced by: Citizens Theatre in collaboration with Urbancroft Films
- Photography: Alan Peebles
- Support: The Performing Arts Venue Relief Fund and Glasgow City Council
Why this matters to Salt & Gorse
At Salt & Gorse we are drawn to work that leads with truth, character, and feeling. The Macbeths shows how focus and restraint can heighten impact. One room, two performances, a story that lingers. That ethos runs through our own projects too.
Originally presented by Citizens Theatre. Film created in collaboration with Urbancroft Films.