Review of Much Ado About Nothing (1993) by David N — 15 Aug 2010

Much Ado About Nothing is a clever film based off of Shakespeare's work. The story is about two lovers, Hero(Beckinsale) and Count Claudio(Leonard), who are to be wed in a week's time. Don Pedro(Washington), who decides that to help pass time, he would play cupid for two people who can't stand each other, Benedick(Branagh) and Beatrice(Thompson). Along the way, each set of couples run into rough patches that root back to Don John(Reeves) thanks to his lackeys and all of their villainous plans....

Much Ado About Nothing's script is written in a pristine manner that can keep those who are foreign to Shakespeare and those who live Shakespeare,watching from beginning to end. The film's script hits every check box a long the way. It Brings Shakespeare's play to life. It's got amazingly well written dialogue that is romantic enough to sweep anyone and everyone off their feet and it keeps you laughing thanks to the constant witty remarks(especially between Branagh and Thomson).

The film has that roller coaster effect. It brings you up with it's highs and brings you down with it's lows. The way the film bounces in between seriousness and silliness is brilliant. Every stage and scenery was in your face and beautiful. The songs were soothing,joyful,and sad. You had everything in this film. To top off everything else, the movie delivers the final knockout punch with it's incredible ensemble.

Branagh was sincere and tormented by his love and collaborated perfectly with Thompson. The best times were when Branagh and Thompson were on screen. If not for them, Reeves, the mono toned android,pumped out a great villainous performance. Yes, he had off points but he was still cruel. My most favorable performance was from Michael Keaton. He was just overly creepy and hilarious. He was pretty much a Shakespearean Beetle Juice. This is only part of the ensemble too, there were just overall great performances from each and every actor so it's hard to mention how well everyone played their role without getting light headed. All that needs to be said is that the casting was perfect.

Overall,the film hits every emotion that we could feel. The script is written to perfection. It's got the witty remarks, the snide remarks, the romance, and most of all the fun factor! The story works so well thanks to the great performances all around from every actor! Not only does Branagh know his Shakespeare, he sure as hell knows how to make it look good with great scenery. This film definitely lives up to it's buzz and is a must watch.

Wade-O-Meter: 96%--->100%.