Kenneth Branagh's Much Ado About Nothing

Kenneth Branagh’s presentation of Shakespeare’s play ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ was a brilliant one in which the Romantic Comedy begins with war and ends with marriage. It revolves around the relationships of two couples which propels drama, conflict and pathos that ensues in the process of their union. The deception is highlighted in the rendition ‘Sigh No More’ which was heard at the beginning and end of the movie. Also it was heard in Act 2.3. It gives a brief incite as to what the play is about, i.e. deception which explores themes of appearance verses reality. In the introduction, banqueting is seen where the characters appear to be having a picnic in the country where it is calm, quiet and peaceful. The letter introduces elements of suspense, mystery and conflict. This then causes Beatrice to ask “Has Signor Montanto returned from war...” A trait of women in comedies is that they are the huntresses of their men. Beatrice and Hero conform to tradition, which is using their femininity to ensnare the men they desire to trap into
He doesn’t want to hear out Dogberry because Dogberry is of a low social class. Claudio was disrespectful before a holy area where he spoke slander; “…heat of a luxurious bed…” which received a repulsive response from the audience. Claudio lacks ethics and respect for religion. He shows his repulsiveness without hesitation. The wedding symbolically becomes a funeral as there is burial of friendships, and Hero’s good reputation. Because of Hero’s accusations, she is now viewed as worthless. In the Elizabethan society, women’s wealth was measured according to virtue. The comedic element in the production was overshadowed by the tragic occurrences. The tragic elements were highlighted by scheming, society’s small mindedness towards different classes. The slanderous words spoken on Holy grounds and stereotyping of individuals also showed