Michael Hoffmans 1999 adaptation of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream received more acclaim then most adaptations previous to it. The well-known cast of actors, as well as the incredible visual effects used are the two most likely reasons for the films appeal to the masses. Even though the films casting and special effects brought people into the theaters to see the film, it isnt what kept them there. Instead, fans and critics alike would have to agree that Hoffmans adaptation was not only cleverly directed, but accurate to Mr. Shakespeares intentions in the original text. It is clear that Hoffman has done his homework.Hoffman seems to concern himself and this production with two major themes. The ideas of universal power of love and universal power of art are easily conveyed to the audience, conveniently enough, by one character. In the text, Bottom appears to us as a boisterous man dedicated to a passion of theater that will never be a realization; whose move through the social ranks is only because of a spell cast on the goddess. In Hoffmans adaptation, Bottom becomes the focal point, or rather our hero.First of all, Hoffman cast veteran actor Kevin Kline in the role, a far stretch from what bottom is normally cast as. Bottom, as well as the other rude mechanicals, are normally character actors. They are commoners trying their hand at performing arts. Naturally, comic characters are cast with comic actors. Hoffman uses Kleins impeccable use of the language and his renowned acting ability to make us see Bottom as a hero, the heart and soul of Shakespeares writing. The first time we meet the mechanicals is after we are already introduced to our lovers and their strife. They meet to start rehearsing for the wedding of Theseus and Hippolyta. We can start to see Hoffmans idea of Universal power of art here, as Peter Quince passes out the parts. Already cast as the brave Pyramis in the lamentable tragedy of Py...
