Much excitement and anticipation is surrounding the upcoming release of "The Great Gatsby." This version, which comes to theaters May 10, is the first major adaptation since Robert Redford and Mia Farrow starred as Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan in 1974. This new film's all-star cast includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton.
This is the second major adaptation DiCaprio is a part of with director Baz Luhrmann. Their previous work in "Romeo & Juliet" received mixed reviews but revolutionized the way the Shakespearian tragedy was performed.
All of the trailers for "Gatsby," however, seem to show a by-the-book portrayal of the parties, affairs and violence surrounding the wealthy class in the 20s. Various retail outlets and large-name companies are using this depiction of glamour portrayed in the movie to catapult new products. Brooks Brothers and Fogal have released lines based on their work for the movie and The Plaza is having roaring 20s-inspired events throughout spring in honor of the film's release. Tiffany and Co. also released a line of jazz age-inspired jewelry to compliment the accessories they produced for "Gatsby."
With all the excitement surrounding F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic, we can only hope that Luhrmann's adaptation does the text justice and truly encompasses the roaring 20s.
Samantha Giedris can be reached at Samantha.giedris@student.shu.edu.
