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Slide 6 of 10

Much Ado About Nothing

You might have watched the Kenneth Branagh-Emma Thompson version of Shakespeare's OG rom-com in high school English class, but we bet you never saw this updated version. It's still the banter-y rom-com you remember, especially anytime Benedick (Alexis Denisof) and Beatrice (Amy Acker) share the screen as exes who snark at each other because they can't admit they still love each other, but the darker elements of the plot are much more evident with the modern, slightly noir-ish setting. Alongside the slapstick comedy and the satisfying romance, this version shines a much harsher spotlight on the subplot that centres on a woman's sexual agency, the cruel ease with which she is denounced, and the rage-inducing behaviour of those who refuse to believe her. There's still a happy ending, but it takes more work and redemption to get there.

Image Source: Everett Collection