33 years later, Denzel still shines in this star-studded Shakespeare adaptation — and you can stream it for free right now

(L-R) Richard Briers and Denzel Washington in "Much Ado About Nothing" (1993).

The Tom's Guide Verdict: 'Much Ado About Nothing'

Rating: ★★★ stars

Verdict: "Much Ado About Nothing" might be a tough watch if you don't care for Shakespeare. Whether due to director Kenneth Branagh's love for the Bard or his own personal taste, this adaptation is a pure retelling, and not retooled for a modern audience. But it's loaded with talent and features delightful performances from Denzel Washington, Branagh himself and his (soon-to-be ex) wife Emma Thompson. If you can make it through the first act, the rest of the movie rewards you for it.

Where to watch: Stream "Much Ado About Nothing" for free on Pluto TV now

The Denzel Watchathon is going back in time this week, with a romantic comedy that would seem outside the legendary actor's wheelhouse to the untrained eye. That's because this week, I'm revisiting "Much Ado About Nothing," a 1993 Shakespeare adaptation, complete with period-appropriate costumes and Elizabethan dialogue.