The Bard can throw a good party — even in 2013. Shakespeare's timeless comedy is given a contemporary spin in Joss Whedon's (The Avenger, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Firefly) film.
Shot in flat, uninspiring black and white, the familiar story takes place at a modern day Los Angeles home — but the dialogue is strict Shakespearean. This clash is jolting at first but the director makes it work quite naturally.
And while the whole film feels effortless, that’s also the biggest problem. It just never went to the next level of hilarity. It needed a little spark. I blame the performances – perhaps they were too focused on making the premise work. Amy Acker (Angel) as Beatrice and Clark Gregg (The Avengers) as Leona came closest injecting that energy and interest.
Simply put: Not near as funny as it should be — but I protest too much — it will be an enjoyable rental.
Award potential: Some art house cred kudos to the director will be the only reward for this light comedy.
The ten buck review: Not worth ten bucks. ‘Tis worth a $2 rental.
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