Much Ado about Nothing (1993)

It is indeed a trivial story, but the Shakespearean lyrics and especially the acting are stunning.

It takes some getting used to, but once you're there, you'll be able to enjoy the setting, costumes, music and dance, the exuberance and passion, and not to forget the dialogue and monologues, especially from Kenneth Branagh. It's captivating right up to the end.

Translated from Dutch · View original

“I do love nothing in the world so well as you. Isn't that strange?”

A fun film. This is mainly due to the cast and the relish with which they play with the Shakespearean monologues and dialogue. With lesser actors and an overly serious tone, this could easily go horribly wrong, but Branagh clearly chooses a lighthearted approach with Much Ado about Nothing. And thanks to Branagh himself and actors/actresses like Thompson, Washington, Leonard, Beckinsale, and Reeves, it's a joy to watch.

Translated from Dutch · View original

Shakespeare—that's often a hit or miss for me in films. It can be fantastic, but you have to make a choice. Either completely stylized, or stripped of the woolly language and made truly natural. This Much Ado about Nothing (what's in a name, I thought about this film) is a typical combination that doesn't work and is therefore rather dull and doesn't do anything for me. Washington does liven things up nicely and is visually appealing and atmospheric at times, but as an overall film, it's rather dull. 1.5 stars.

Translated from Dutch · View original