Review of Much Ado About Nothing (2013) by Reel And U — 25 Jun 2013

Joss Whedon's modern-day version of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing didn't entertain me so much as earn my respect. Unlike many people I have seen several versions, movie and stage, of Much Ado About Nothing. That fact colors my viewing of this particular version of the play. The film didn't have any true spark or new element that really explained why it was redone. It feels like Joss Whedon made it as a personal pet project of sorts. Something I can't fault him for to be sure but why do I need to be subjected to it? All that said Whedon does a good a great job of blending the old Elizabethan language with the modern setting. Everything about the movie is clean, concise and flows with ease. Shakespeare's words are delivered with ease making it easy for the audience to follow the story despite the antiquated language. Alexis Denisof's portrayal of Benedick stands out as the shining star. Particularly during one scene toward the middle has his cohorts discuss Beatrice's supposed love for him as he eavesdrops. This scene followed by a similar one where Beatrice does the eavesdropping provided the bulk of the entertainment for me and a decent amount of laughs. Props to Whedon for making a film that is faithful to the original while being somehow relatable to a modern day audience, but I just wasn't enthralled or overly impressed.

6/10 Stars - Nothing here impressed me to the point where I understood why we have another remake of this particular Shakespeare play, but those who aren't familiar with the play are sure to enjoy it.