"Your job is to protect Shakespeare from us," producer Irving Thalberg told a scholar hired to consult on Romeo and Juliet. Thalberg's respect for the Bard infuses this "best of the pre-Olivier Shakespeare films"(David Shipman, The Story of Cinema) chosen as one of 1936's 10 Best Films by The New York Times and the National Board of Review. George Cukor directs this timeless tale of ardent lovers divided by family. Norma Shearer and Leslie Howard in the title roles are "so good that one can forget they are too old for the roles" (Leonard Maltin's Movie Guide). Adding to the allure of this nominee for four Academy Awards , including Best Picture, are remarkable sets and costumes (Botticelli paintings inspired Shearer's wardrobe) that reflect the film's lavish budget.