this be possibly the bad version of the play i have see several time on stage apart from the movie . a very nice idea for the set up the american south can give a credible backdrop for the extreme reaction round hero suppose misdemeanour . but the execution . widdoes be a very mannered beatrice give a particularly poor performance . waterston and a fine actor and be not much good a benedict . the poor performance be in the role of don john it make keanu reef look good . perhaps the desire to make it a caricature along the line of the villain who tie the maiden to the train track fit with the keystone kops caper of dogberry and his men but the acting make you want to cringe . successful set ups include the scene where they fool benedict into believe beatrice love him be the act competent it would be superb . but the use of the river and the visual humour of benedict move closer be well produce . overall i have to force myself to keep watching but it certainly do not keep my attention . very disappointing . with respect to latter comment above i be nearly 40. i have be watch stage and screen production of shakespeare for over 2 decade . might i suggest when try to defend your friend you speak to the piece rather than attack other reviewer when you be so inadequately arm in term of fact . i can assume though and from your distaste regard youth and that you be of sufficient age where the mannered acting of bygone day be more to your taste . my personal favourite pairing be rylance and mcteer on the london stage . unlike widdoes and mcteer and a skilled and charismatic performer and can act .