Michael Radford's adaptation of William Shakespeare's 'The Merchant Of Venice'.


16th Century Venice: Young nobleman Bassanio (Fiennes) has asked his friend Antonio (Irons) to lend him money in order that he might sail to Belmont and try for the hand of the fair Portia (Collins). However, Antonio's money is all tied up in his business with his ships all away at various ports. There is nothing they can do but seek out the Jewish moneylender, Shylock (Pacino). Shylock is resentful towards Antonio, and has a particular dislike for Christians. However, what Antonio is proposing is a business transaction, nothing more. Shylock is persuaded but not before he enacts a condition of his own: If Antonio defaults on the loan, then Shylock will take a pound of his flesh as payment. It is a harsh bargain but Antonio is certain he will have no trouble paying him the money and so agrees...