1st post - Much Ado about Nothing

(This will probably become an actual structured blog eventually, but for now i'm just going to put up my thoughts on various things, mainly film and television.)

But yes. To Work!

Film: Much Ado About Nothing.

    Given my longstanding adoration of all things Whedon, it is hardly surprising how much I enjoyed this film. What is more surprising to me is how well it stands on its own merit, rather than the love I hold for those involved and the backstory behind its production.

    If you didn’t know, Joss and friends enjoyed idly frolicking away their weekends interpreting Shakespearean plays for no other reason than their own mirth. Eventually someone brought a camera and suggested they actually film it. Thus, here stands, filmed entirely in Whedon’s own home with a few close friends, a heartfelt and amusing adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s best plays.

   The antithesis of a Lurhmann production, Whedon’s work is more subdued in its style (seen particularly in the choice to film in black and white), although don’t let that fool you. Whilst not only being substantial in its emotional weight (cough cough Gatsby), Much Ado oozes charm and flair. Whedon’s trademark gift for witty dialogue and rich characters shines here, and although the great Bard himself must of course take much of the credit for this, the director’s touch is very noticable. The physicality of the staging (that’s a thing, right?), and the brief moments of brilliant physical comedy are especially notable, which leads me to one of this film’s greatest strengths; the leads.

     Alexis Denisof and Amy Acker as Benedict and Beatrice show themselves as masters of both comedic and dramatic acting. I hope bigger and better roles come to them as a result of this work. Whilst all the supporting characters are brilliantly cast and their acting is as on form as ever, I would particularly take note of Clark Gregg and Sean Maher, the former masterfully stealing the spotlight in several scenes, the latter blowing Keanu Reeves' strange performance in Branagh’s adaptation out of the mind with excellent presence as the villain. Nathan Fillion is, as always, wonderful.

   I loved this film. I normally find myself frustrated by Shakespearean dialogue (yes, I’m a pleb), and whilst I was lost at times, the direction and acting kept me both in step with the plot, and glued to my seat. I only hope this garners the attention it deserves.