AS YOU LIKE IT

Cinemavixion Review

Paul Czinner's 1936 adaptation of William Shakespeare's 'As You Like It' offers a visually lush, albeit somewhat uneven, journey into the Forest of Arden. Elisabeth Bergner's spirited portrayal of Rosalind, particularly in her disguised male persona, is a central pillar of the film, capturing the character's wit and emotional depth. Laurence Olivier, in an early role, complements Bergner effectively, though the chemistry between the leads sometimes feels overshadowed by the grandeur of the production. The film faithfully translates the romantic entanglements and pastoral charm of the play, presenting a classic rendition that, despite its age and a mixed critical reception indicated by a 20% Rotten Tomatoes score, remains an interesting artifact for Shakespeare enthusiasts and admirers of classic cinema. Its adherence to the source material makes it a commendable, if not definitive, cinematic interpretation of the beloved comedy.