As You Like It (HBO)

About As You Like It (HBO)

"As You Like It" is a compelling HBO adaptation of William Shakespeare's comedic play released in 2007. Set in the late 19th Century, it is directed and adapted by Kenneth Branagh. The plot revolves around the lives of Rosalind and Orlando, who, after being banished from their dukedoms, find safety and eventually, love in the Forest of Arden. Rosalind, disguised as a man, tests Orlando's professions of love.

Making / Production

Branagh transforms Shakespeare's classic text into a film suitable for contemporary audiences, without losing the original's charm. Set in feudal Japan, despite it being written in England, this movie represents Branagh's unique twist in his Shakespeare offerings. Filmed completely on location at Wakehurst Place, the country estate of the Royal Botanical Gardens, it takes advantage of the green woodland space and beautiful gardens to create compelling visuals.

Actors

• Romola Garai (Rosalind): Garai beautifully portrays the character's quick intellect, wit, and eventual romantic transformation.
• David Oyelowo (Orlando): Oyelowo plays the love-stricken and innocent Orlando with great skill and believability.
• Kevin Kline (Jaques): Kline presents a melancholic, yet intricate Jaques so skillfully and convincingly, that he stands as a highlight in the movie.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This is Kenneth Branagh's fifth adaptation of Shakespeare's play after directing Henry V, Much Ado About Nothing, Hamlet, and Love's Labour's Lost.
• The movie was filmed entirely in England, despite being set in Japan.
• Despite the title, Kevin Kline's character Jaques delivers the movie's famous "All the world's a stage" monologue.

Quotes

• "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players."
• "I would not be cured, youth."
• "Can one desire too much of a good thing?"

Music, Soundtrack

• "Under the Greenwood Tree" sung by Bryce Dallas Howard.
• "Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind" sung by Kevin Kline.
• "Hey, Nonny Nonny" a traditional song used in the closing credits.