As You Like It
As You Like It

Movie spotlight

As You Like It

2006
Movie
127 min
English

Witty, playful and utterly magical, the story is a compelling romantic adventure in which Rosalind and Orlando's celebrated courtship is played out against a backdrop of political rivalry, banishment and exile in the Forest of Arden - set in 19th-century Japan.

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes60%
Metacritic60/100
Google Users76%
Director: Kenneth BranaghGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

In this adaptation of Shakespeare's classic comedy, Rosalind, niece of the usurping Duke Frederick, is banished from court. She flees to the Forest of Arden disguised as a young man named Ganymede. There, she encounters her banished father, Duke Senior, and a host of characters, including the lovesick Orlando, whom she proceeds to woo in her male disguise. The play explores themes of love, disguise, and the pastoral ideal versus courtly life.

Critical Reception

Kenneth Branagh's film adaptation of 'As You Like It' received mixed to generally positive reviews, with many critics praising its visual style and the performances of its ensemble cast, particularly Bryce Dallas Howard and Kevin Kline. However, some found the interpretation to be somewhat traditional or lacking in the spark that makes the play vibrant, while others appreciated its accessible approach to Shakespeare.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its lush cinematography and strong performances, especially from Bryce Dallas Howard as Rosalind.

  • Some critics found the direction to be safe, favoring a more traditional approach to the beloved Shakespearean comedy.

  • The film is seen as an accessible entry point for those new to Shakespeare, with a star-studded cast.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's beauty and the charm of the actors, finding it to be a pleasant and enjoyable adaptation. Some viewers appreciated the modern touches, while others felt it didn't fully capture the play's wit.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture for Kevin Kline.

Fun Fact

Kenneth Branagh originally envisioned the film set in Japan during the 19th century, but ultimately decided on a more traditional pastoral setting inspired by the American South.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
DocTerminus

DocTerminus

I believe Kenneth Branagh's Shakespeare based films are a great success. I don't mean that they got good reviews and made box office bank. For me, his **HENRY V** was the first time watching Shakespeare I was intrigued and, frankly followed...