Much Ado about Nothing
There is no denying that Joss Whedon is a geek legend. After years pleasing the masses and the cults with shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Firefly, Whedon bounced into cinema like a genius. Wrapping his talent and helping to create films such as The Cabin in the Woods, Whedon is undoubtedly one of the biggest things to hit the film and television world since the introduction of Technicolor. If you don’t believe me, or you don’t know, Joss Whedon was responsible for The Avengers and that’s all you need to know.
So with all this amassed and firmly tucked under his utility belt, it would be surprising for some that he has stripped back the special effects, the aliens and the monsters and has created a modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy Much Ado about Nothing. Calling upon a familiar cast that has worked on his television shows and movies, Much Ado about Nothing is a superb treat for film lovers.
Much Ado about Nothing is a Lord Leonato is hosting some princes over to his kingdom; the merry and jesting Don Pedro and the dark and villainous Don John. Amongst the Pedro crew is Count Claudio who falls in love with Leonato’s daughter Hero. Pedro is not only enthralled with setting the star crossed lovers up, but a plot is made to bring together the fiery Beatrice and the clown Benedick. Both of whom are scorned against one another. Add Don John’s complex plot to bring the marriage of Hero and Claudio down as well as some slapstick comedy with the watchers and Much Ado about Nothing is a light-hearted adaptation that does many wonders.
Choosing not to further complex the plot with budget, Joss Whedon’s nearly laid back production is an effortless rendition of the Shakespeare’s work. Shot in just 12 days, at his home and in black and white, the intimacy of the film actually enhances it, making it a cleverly light hearted affair. All involved have not only worked with Whedon but each other, which gives the movie realism, heart and ridiculous amounts of chemistry. The movie bounces merrily along and the cast do so well wrapping their tongues around the Shakespearean language that you’ll be aghast to just how modern they make the “doths” and “thee’s.”
And it really is the tremendous acting that brings to life Much Ado. Amy Ackler as the sharp tongued witty Beatrice is a particular highlight as she provides not only outstanding acting, but provides a strong intellectual performance. She is greatly balanced with Alexis Denisof as Benedick who gives a clownish but grand show. Clark Gregg as Leanato is a large presence who steals the show. Fran Kranz and Jillian Morgese as Claudio and Hero are delightful and Nathan Fillion provides us with the loveable buffoon Dogberry. Mix this all together with Sean Maher’s calculating Don John and Much Ado is really a treat for talent.
Many comparisons have been made with Kenneth Branagh, who adapts many of Shakespeare’s works including Much Ado. And while Branagh’s work is steeped in period, wine and sun, Whedon’s work here is a tight production that is slick and stylish. Whedon weaves a world of Shakespeare within Santa Monica, California. Whedon has not only finely adapted this famous Shakespeare play but he has elicited some truly magnificent performances.
Proving that yet again, his wicked wit and sharp eye can create masterpieces.
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