As You Like It 2006
"Romance...or something like it."
Kenneth Branagh's lush adaptation of *As You Like It (2006)* transports Shakespeare's timeless comedy-drama to 19th-century Japan, blending wit, romance, and political intrigue against the verdant backdrop of the Forest of Arden.
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is As You Like It (2006) about?
This Shakespearean classic follows Rosalind, a young noblewoman banished to the Forest of Arden, where she disguises herself as a man and navigates love, friendship, and political intrigue. Alongside her cousin Celia and the dashing Orlando, she discovers the complexities of romance and self-acceptance in a world where disguise and honesty collide.
Who directed As You Like It?
Kenneth Branagh, the acclaimed filmmaker behind *Henry V* and *Much Ado About Nothing*, directed *As You Like It (2006)* with his signature blend of wit and visual flair.
Who stars in As You Like It?
The film features Romola Garai as Rosalind, Kevin Kline as Jacques, Bryce Dallas Howard as Celia, Adrian Lester as Orlando, and Alfred Molina in a memorable supporting role.
Is As You Like It (2006) worth watching?
With its stellar cast and Branagh's direction, *As You Like It (2006)* offers a fresh, engaging take on Shakespeare's comedy. Fans of romantic dramas and period pieces will appreciate its blend of humor and heart, even if it's not the most faithful adaptation. The 19th-century Japanese setting adds an unexpected yet delightful layer to the classic tale.
How long is As You Like It?
The film runs for 127 minutes, or just over two hours.
🎥 Trailer
About As You Like It (2006) — A Romantic Comedy-Drama in 19th-Century Japan
Kenneth Branagh's lush adaptation of *As You Like It (2006)* transports Shakespeare's timeless comedy-drama to 19th-century Japan, blending wit, romance, and political intrigue against the verdant backdrop of the Forest of Arden. Romola Garai and Bryce Dallas Howard shine as Rosalind and Celia, while Kevin Kline delivers a standout performance as the eccentric Jacques. The film balances sharp humor with tender moments, exploring themes of love, disguise, and self-discovery amid exile and rivalry. Branagh's direction infuses the classic tale with fresh energy, making it a visually captivating and emotionally resonant experience.
Set against a stunning rural landscape, *As You Like It (2006)* reimagines Shakespeare's pastoral comedy with a blend of elegance and spontaneity. The chemistry between the leads—especially Garai and Adrian Lester's Orlando—keeps the story buoyant, while Alfred Molina and Janet McTeer add rich layers of depth. The film's charm lies in its ability to balance playful banter with deeper reflections on identity and belonging, all wrapped in a dreamlike aesthetic that feels both timeless and uniquely cinematic.