Film Review – Much Ado About Nothing

In 1993, Kenneth Branagh attempted a lush, cinematic take on William
Shakespeare’s famous play, “Much Ado About Nothing.” Attempting to
counterpunch contextual impenetrability, Branagh turned the stage
production into a luscious screen event, boasting stunning Italian
countryside locations, heavenly golden bodies, and an all-star cast bent
on challenging themselves with a rare outing of sophistication. It was a
beautiful film, and perhaps bold enough to discourage beloved
writer/director Joss Whedon from matching its sense of euphoria. His
“Much Ado About Nothing” elects the opposite approach, refusing
production polish, varied locations, and even color. It’s a
stripped-down take on the Bard, ready-made for Whedon acolytes —
certainly interesting, but once you go Branagh, it’s difficult to go
back.
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