 | |
List Price: $27.95 | | Label: Sony Pictures
Salesrank: 51608
Released: January 20, 1998 |
| Our Price: $22.95 |
| Used Price: $13.67 |
|
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Media: DVD |
|
Editorial Review:
Kenneth Branagh's 1993 production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing is a vigorous and imaginative work, cheerful and accessible for everyone. Largely the story of Benedick (Branagh) and Beatrice (Emma Thompson)--adversaries who come to believe each is trying to woo the other--the film veers from arched wit to ironic romps, and the two leads don't mind looking a little silly at times. But the plot is also layered with darker matters that concern the ease with which men and women fall into mutual distrust. Branagh has rounded up a mixed cast of stage vets and Hollywood stars, among the latter Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton, the latter playing a rather seedy, Beetlejuice-like version of Dogberry, king of malapropisms. The DVD release has optional full-screen and widescreen presentations, Dolby sound, optional Spanish and French soundtracks or subtitles.--Tom Keogh
Much Ado About Nothing Reviews:
Shakespeare done to perfection 
2008-12-02 - This adaptation of the classic is perfectly understandable, humorous, beautiful and a joy to behold. Even those who are bored or daunted by Shakespeare's work will enjoy this bountiful, star studded film.
Love of Language 
2008-10-24 - I think this adaptation of "Much Ado About Nothing," I think is one of Shakespeare's best comedies, is a great film. It can function as a sort of introductory bit of Shakespeare, because this play mostly consists of characters exchanging witty banter, and the actors (Keanu Reeves very much aside) brought such life to the already hilarious words. From the straight forward interpretations of Beatrice and Benedick (Emma Thompson and director Kenneth Branagh, respectively), to the wild but captivating take on Dogberry (Michael Keaton), this movie bursts with wit and life that most film adaptations of the bard's work has lacked.
I thought Keanu Reeves was a horrible choice to play the villainous Don John, for a couple of reasons. One, because Reeves--sorry, Reeves lovers, if there are any of you--he quite simply can't act. Two, he's supposed to be the brother of Don Pedro, who is played (nicely, I might add) by Denzel Washington... who, to say the least, looks nothing at all like Reeves. Whatever the reasoning was behind that, Don John plays a mercifully small role, leaving all the big stuff to better characters played by better actors. The story is quick and punchy, bursting with witty banter and love of the English language. It brings a story of love, trickery, and friendship to the table and, like all comedies, comes complete with a big old happy ending that will surely leave a smile on your face.
7/10
DVD Much Ado About Nothing
2008-10-18 - This is an excellent Hollywood presentation of Shakespeare's play Much Ado About Nothing. Emma Thompson is an excellent actress. I would definitely be careful not to show it to children or young teens as there is a fairly explicit sexual scene in it unless you totally fast forward that scene.
Great Movie
2008-10-13 - A great movie to watch. It's kind of shallow in the plot, but very witty and comical. The acting is excellent, and it's definitely worthy of imagination of Shakespeare himself... as if these people were watched while he penned this play.
For those worried about being able to follow the archaic language, don't worry. The movie has subtitle options and it's by far one of the easiest to grasp!!!
Great!
2008-08-29 - Wonderful movie! Now to find the Flying Karamazov Brothers' rendition of the Merchant of Venice.
