Much Ado About Nothing Review

Posted 11 years ago by myetvmedia

Much Ado About Nothing: Whedon’s Shakespearean Musical Sitcom

“Much Ado About Nothing” is a modern day musical Shakespearean sitcom that was literally shot in the director’s home, that man being Joss Whedon. Imagine his LA mansion is the kingdom, the knights wear fashionable suits instead of armour and everyone drinks from glassware instead of chalices and goblets. It is also presented in black and white. Whedon has quite the imagination as he re-envisions one of Shakespeare’s classic comedies.

The ensemble cast has a resonating chemistry as they bring Whedon’s Shakespearian experience to life. “Much Ado About Nothing” is a tale about two men trying to find love with women from another family. Claudio (Fran Kranz) and Benedick (Alexis Denisof) return to Messina after being away for quite some time. Upon their return Claudio’s eye is caught by Hero Quillian (Jillian Morgese) daughter of Leonato (Clark Gregg) the lord of the household and Benedick is attracted to Beatrice (Amy Acker) Leonato’s niece. A wrench is put into the love story when someone accuses Hero of being impure and offers proof of that claim. Claudio and the entire household are sent into a tail spin as this truth comes to the surface. It sounds dramatic but actually it’s quite funny.

Whedon really demonstrates his ability to tell a story no matter the location. His characters are interesting, his cast is solid and the beats, pacing and comedy are on point. I will be honest, and tell you that I am personally not that much of a fan of Shakespeare, or musicals for that matter. It always takes me a while to get into them. But in the end “Much Ado About Nothing” has won me over. If you’re a fan of Shakespeare or Whedon you will definitely like this film. It’s a fun time at the movies. And don’t get me wrong, I can be won over by musicals under the right circumstances too and Whedon has managed to do it here.

 

Chris Murphy

Gallery

  • 1
  • 3
  • 2
  • 7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 6

ETV Newsletter

Get the latest on the media landscape and the minds that create inspiring, paradigm-shifting ideas. Sign up and stay in the loop.

Advertise with Us

close