As You Like It
As You Like It

Movie spotlight

As You Like It

1936
Movie
96 min
English

Film version of Shakespeare's comedy of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to win the attention of the one she loves.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Paul CzinnerGenres: Romance, Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

This lavish adaptation of Shakespeare's pastoral comedy follows Rosalind, who flees persecution in the Duke's court for the Forest of Arden. There, she disguises herself as a young man to pursue her love, Orlando, who has also sought refuge in the woods. Their romance blossoms amidst a backdrop of exiled dukes, disguised ladies, and witty shepherds.

Critical Reception

As You Like It (1936) was a notable attempt to bring Shakespeare to the screen with a star-studded cast and grand production values. While praised for its performances, particularly Elizabeth Bergner's Rosalind, and its visual splendor, the film was criticized by some for being too stagey and lacking the dynamism expected of cinema, ultimately receiving a mixed to lukewarm reception from critics.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its faithful adaptation of Shakespeare's text and strong lead performances.

  • Criticized for its somewhat static direction and theatrical presentation.

  • The production design and costumes were often highlighted as a positive aspect.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

The film was produced by a consortium of British financiers and was the first sound film adaptation of 'As You Like It' to be made in Britain.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Elizabeth Bergner looks something akin to "Peter Pan" stuck in the headlights of an approaching armoured car in this really rather dry interpretation of one of William Shakespeare's lighter comedies. In theory, the cast ought to have been a...