Much Ado About Nothing

Image Source: IMDB.com

​ Finally!  I get to write about Much Ado About Nothing! 


This movie is one of my go-to  films when I need a little bit of extra happiness in my week.  I will be the first to admit that I don't always "get" Shakespeare when I read it.  Sometimes the language he uses is just so far out there that I can't wrap my head around what they are trying to say.


For me it's easier to see it performed than it is to read it.  That being said, I really enjoy adaptations in which they make the setting modern but keep the old style language.  I loved it when they did it with Romeo and Juliet back in the 90's with Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes and I loved it with this adaptation.  It's no secret by now that I love the movies and shows that Joss Whedon makes.  I've yet to see anything of his that I did not enjoy thoroughly.


His adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing is no exception.


Everything from the choice of actors to the decision to make it black and white to filming it at his own home.  Everything was perfection for me.  This comedy comes alive with these pieces in place.  Everything fits perfectly and flows as it should.  The cast is a who's who of previous Whedon projects that starts with the leads, Amy Acker and Alexis Denisof.  The two of them have a ridiculous amount of chemistry and you can see the years of working together in their choices.


The physical comedy in this movie has both subtly and slapstick qualities.  The actors are able to make you laugh with a raised eyebrow just as easily as they do with a pratfall. 


If you don't care for Shakespeare because you don't understand it I completely understand, but give this movie a try.  You may find that it helps with understanding the way the language flows.


If not?  Then take a listen to our podcast instead.  We discuss all this and much much more.

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