Movie spotlight
The Public's Much Ado About Nothing
This bold interpretation of Shakespeare’s comedic masterpiece features Danielle Brooks (“Orange is the New Black,” Broadway’s “The Color Purple”) and Grantham Coleman (“Buzzer,” “The Americans”) as the sparring lovers Beatrice and Benedick. Tony Award winner Kenny Leon (“American Son,” “A Raisin in the Sun”) directs with choreography by Tony Award nominee Camille A. Brown (“Choir Boy”). Set in contemporary Georgia with an election race underway, Great Performances: Much Ado About Nothing finds the community of Messina celebrating a break from an ongoing war, but not all is peaceful amid the merriment. Former rivals battle it out, revenge is sought and trickery runs amok in this timeless comedy of romantic retribution and miscommunication. Earning a New York Times Critic’s Pick, the play was recorded during its final weekend of Free Shakespeare in the Park performances, June 22-23, 2019.
Insights
Plot Summary
Filmed in black and white over twelve days at Joss Whedon's house, this contemporary take on Shakespeare's classic comedy of errors follows Beatrice and Benedick as they engage in their customary war of wits. Meanwhile, their friends Claudio and Hero fall in love, only to be torn apart by a deceitful plot.
Critical Reception
Joss Whedon's "Much Ado About Nothing" was met with generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its modern sensibility and Whedon's distinctive directorial style. The performances, particularly from the ensemble cast who had frequently worked with Whedon, were highlighted as a strong point, with the black and white cinematography adding a unique visual flair.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sharp dialogue and witty performances, especially from Alexis Denisof and Amy Acker.
The modern setting and Whedon's signature style bring a fresh perspective to the Shakespearean text.
Some critics found the black and white cinematography to be a stylish choice, while others felt it occasionally detracted from the emotional impact.
Google audience: Audiences largely enjoyed this adaptation, appreciating the clever modernization of Shakespeare's play and the energetic performances. Many viewers found the film's humor and the chemistry between the lead actors to be highlights, though some felt it lacked the depth of other Shakespearean adaptations.
Fun Fact
The entire film was shot in just twelve days at Joss Whedon's own house in Santa Monica, California.
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