It was directed by Rupert Goold from his stage adaptation for the Chichester Festival Theatre in 2007.

Patrick Stewart is featured in the title role, with Kate Fleetwood as Lady Macbeth.

It evokes the atmosphere of Romania in the 1960s, with parallels between Ceaușescu and Macbeth in their equally brutal quests for power.

The Three Witches likewise receive an update in keeping with the 20th century aesthetics, appearing as hospital nurses.

Their presence is pervasive throughout the film, punctuating the horror of Macbeth's murderous reign.