Much Ado About Nothing

The GDR film studio "DEFA" was famous for its well-acted classical adaptations of classic novels and plays that stuck very closely to the original as far as plot, dialogues, set decoration and costumes are concerned. "Viel Lärm um Nichts" (Much Ado About Nothing), based on the play by William Shakespeare, is a typical example of that. Although entirely filmed in a studio, the production is a very funny and entertaining adaptation that creates a Shakespearean atmosphere by using contemporary costumes and set decoration. This colourful scenery is the perfect background for the actors, who are giving very good performances, above all Rolf Ludwig, who is able to portray Benedict's development from the mocking bachelor to the loving husband convincingly. Although I generally prefer Kenneth Branagh's adaptation of the play, this film tops it in some parts: for example, the scenes with the stupid men of the guard are far better and funnier here than in the 1992 version. All in all, I strongly recommend this film because it makes you feel as if you were watching a very good stage production. I'm sure that Shakespeare would have liked it.