Cast
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Emma Thompson
as Beatrice
Kenneth Branagh
as Benedick
Kate Beckinsale
as Hero
Denzel Washington
as Don Pedro of Aragon
Michael Keaton
as Dogberry
Keanu Reeves
as Don John
Robert Sean Leonard
as Claudio
Richard Briers
as Signor Leonato
Imelda Staunton
as Margaret
Jimmy Yuill
as Friar Francis
Brian Blessed
as Antonio
Phyllida Law
as Ursula
Patrick Doyle
as Balthazar
Ben Elton
as Verges
Andy Hockley
as George Seacole
Crew
Director
- Kenneth Branagh
Writer
- Kenneth Branagh
Producer
- Stephen Evans
- Kenneth Branagh
- David Parfitt
Reviews
DocTerminus
For Kenneth Branagh's 4th film he chose to return to The Bard that brought him here. He chose Shakespeare's farcical comedy **MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING**. I knew one thing going in... Shakespeare's comedies are rarely that funny. I knew something better coming out.. I could not have been more wrong. This film is not only funny and sexy, it is a treasure.
This is the first Branagh film that he utilizes stunt casting - bringing in Hollywood talent into roles normally filled by Shakespearian actors. And while it isn't always perfect, there is no complaint. In fact Michael Keaton, Keanu Reeves and Denzel Washington shine some bright light toward the American talent pool. Of course, many of Kenneth's _'Shakespeare'_ friends are still along for the ride - Brian Blessed is amongst my favorites.
Branagh's first major achievement with this film is on his screenplay treatment. Like his **HENRY V**, he has cut the screenplay down to a much more manageable Hollywood film length. It is taut and efficient. Nothing is missing for the casual Shakespeare fan. Of course the obsessed will find - or _won't_ find a lot of stuff.
Branagh's second major achievement is shared by others in the cast, especially Emma Thompson. Their handle of the language and poetry of Shakespeare shifts what is often muddy and confusing dialogue to crystal clear and modern understanding. In fact you will find yourself smiling through most of their scenes together as they torture each other until their love takes over.
In high school readings of any Shakespeare plays, students often get confused as to the social aspect of the stories... They would question why there is a party and why is everyone in the town celebrating it? Why do battles seem to be fought and won amongst only 10 soldiers? Why does it seem that marriages are performed on the same day that the couple first met? So many questions confuse students and the adults who grow from them. Branagh's most masterful achievement here is in answering these questions.
During his **HENRY V**, Branagh used an incredibly impressive tracking shot through the death and destruction on the field of Agincourt. Just as impressive is the finale of **MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING**, including the audience in the celebration moving through the community and finally, up into the sky with a grand view of the love and excitement of all that are alive to experience it.
It is obvious that Kenneth Branagh is a major fan of Shakespeare. I would venture to say that he is more than a fan, he is an artistic peer.
Feb 6, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Much Ado About Nothing examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Kenneth Branagh brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1993, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Much Ado About Nothing took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $11.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 158 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 128 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1670 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1993, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Much Ado About Nothing shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dead Man Walking, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Much Ado About Nothing offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Four Weddings and a Funeral and Top Gun explore similar territory, Much Ado About Nothing stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 7, 1993
- Runtime: 1h 51m
- Budget: $11,000,000
- Revenue: $22,600,000
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