Much Ado About Nothing

Rating:
Summary: Oh well
Review: I don't see what all the hype is about. It's a good play and all, but it only took me three weeks to write it, and most of the material was lifted from other works anyway. I guess I shouldn't complain about success, though.

Rating:
Summary: Loved it
Review: At first I could not understand a thing about this book, but after reading it and learning of the witty lines between benedick and beatrice. This book turned out to be quite interesting. I recommend this book to everyone that has a great understanding of books. ;)

Rating:
Summary: SHAKSPEARE AT IT'S BEST
Review: This has got to be one of the best Shakespeare adapations i have ever seen. It should be compusory viewing for school childern. It makes shakespeare not just assessable but fun. I never realized what a great sense of humour shakespeare had until i saw this. Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson are brilliant as waring lovers Benedick and Beatrice. There "Merry War" is the highlight of the movie. Also i was made up to see such a strong female character. Emma Thompson was born to play Beatrice. Like a real feminist in Shakespeare. Also Micheal Keating and Ben Elton as Dogberry and Burges nearly steal the show.

Rating:
Summary: Good for All Readers
Review: Even though I'm 12,I like Shakespeare.Actually,I like Much Ado About Nothing but that's because I haven't read other works.It started when I read a children's book of Romeo & Juliet.Then,I read the play version and I went on trying to learn about it in this book about Shakespeare.I came over a sypnosis of "Much Ado About Nothing" and it became so interesting,I got a book.Ever since,I couldn't put down the book.Anyway,young or old,anybody would love to read this.

Rating:
Summary: A Beautiful Retelling of one of The Bard's Finest
Review: Much can be said of this excellent production, which rivals Brannagh's HAMLET in terms of direction, set design, and costuming. Sumptuously acted by Kenneth Brannagh, Emma Thompson, Brian Blessed, Keanu Reeves, and Denzel Washington (dashing as the Prince, one of his best performances to date, acting not only with words but subtle, audience-pleasing nuance), the film produces a multitude of comic folly that surpasses Shakespeare's original vision. Michael Keaton's turn as the dim-witted constable is a masterstroke of casting and his portrayal is beyond words. The set design depicts the distinct Mediterranean feel of the play, and the costumes, very much in the style of early 19th century dragoons for the soldiers, and airy, light day clothes for civilians and ladies, add to the overall visual feast. The film's only flaw comes at the middle, where things take a decidedly (and unnecessarily) darker plunge. This, though all mends itself, makes the viewer, so used to the comedic bafoonery and romantic trickery, rather antsy. In all, a superb production worthy of any film enthusiast's video library. Enjoy!

Rating:
Summary: Funny Willy!
Review: This book will blow your hair back! It's surprising to see how modern Shakespeare was for his time! It's fantastic fun: This book is filled with jokes and quiproquos and will keep you laughing all thru the story! The dialogues are very smart and full of double meanings!(especially betwix Beatrice and Benedick). Definitly a "must"!

Rating:
Summary: A masterpiece every detail.
Review: This is one of the best Shakespeare adaptations I have ever seen. A good script, an excellent cast and a beautifull score all add up to a great movie. Shakepeare's tale of true love in jeopardy is made believable in a way I personally hadn't thought possible. Brannagh's genius for selecting and casting his actors was never so obvious as here. Even Keanu Reeves, not exactly my favourite actor surpassed himself as the villainous prins John, while Emma Thompson and Brannagh himself seemed to have their roles taylor-made for them. Special attention is also due to Michael Keaton in one of his best comic roles as the imbecile constable. Making the force of law look stupid was one of Shakespeare's favourite pastimes and one feels that Keaton lives up tot the Bard's expectations.

Rating:
Summary: A good introduction to the shakespearian world
Review: Kenneth Branagh's masterpiece. Being of a French culture, I was not at all familiar with Shakespear's classics. After watching this movie, I was quickly drawn into the bard's work. The actors deliver their prose effortlessly and it takes no more than 5 minutes to get used to the dialogue. It is a witty and greatly enjoyable "feel good" movie.

Rating:
Summary: Denzel dazzles! Do Much Ado
Review: There is an opening scene where the prince (Denzel Washington) and his men arrive at the villa of Leonardo. They bathe and then walk in unison to the main house. Washington's walk is worth the price of admission. (And I'm an heterosexual guy!) Washington's role requires that he give the most textured performance of the players - and he does it magnificently. The entire cast shines, except for Mr. Reeves. (I would be interested in knowing Branagh's true take on Keanu's performance.) Emma Thompson has that old screen magic that literally causes viewers to fall in love with her(both Hepburns had it, as did Diana Sands, Barbara Stanwyck and Dana Wynter, to name a few. I think Sandra Bullock and Julia Roberts are contenders, as well.). Ken Branagh is effortlessly brilliant. Keaton was somewhat over the top. Although the story is a bit contrived (it's Shakespeare, after all), it is a wonderfully entertaining and accessible vehicle for Shakespeare fans and detractors.

Rating:
Summary: Was there ever such a witty film?
Review: I have seen this film a few times now, and I still marvel each time at the sheer wittiness of it. I don't think I've ever seen such clever tongue-in-cheek humor. Also, it's a wonder story overall, and restores one's faith in love. Michael Keaton is wonderful in his role. And not to mention, the physical scenery of the film is stunning!