Answer:
He used modern sets and costumes, and replaced certain plot devices with more modern ones, such as replacing swords and daggers with pistols, replacing Friar John with FedEx, and so on. He occasionally added modern touches such as the ecstasy pill at the party or the video surveillance of the balcony scene to amplify the intent of the original (that Romeo is entering a different mental state at the party, that Romeo and Juliet are in constant danger of being overheard or spotted during the balcony scene)