It grossed $43 million worldwide,[4] which, despite failing to reach the mark set by Franco Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet, made it one of the most financially successful Shakespeare films.

Also present are Benedick's friend Claudio, a young count; and Don John who, despite his rebellion, has apparently reconciled with his brother.

Don Pedro, learning of his friend's feelings, decides to act on his behalf and arranges the match at a party.

Needing something to pass the time until the wedding, Don Pedro decides to arrange a similar fate for Beatrice and Benedick, who seemingly hate each other.

Don Pedro, Leonato, and Claudio stage a conversation containing a false account of how much Beatrice loves Benedick, all the while knowing he is hiding within earshot.

The three hapless watchmen overhear Borachio bragging to his colleague Conrade about how he and Don John had succeeded in stopping the wedding.

At the wedding, Claudio publicly disgraces his would-be bride and storms away, along with most of the guests, except for Ursula, the Friar, Leonato, Beatrice, Antonio, and Benedick.

Leonato forgives Claudio on the condition that he publicly declare his wrongdoing and then marry Hero's cousin - his brother Antonio's daughter - the next morning.

Although Goldwyn initially greenlit the project independently, additional funding came from American Playhouse Theatrical Films and Columbia TriStar Home Video.

[6] The ensemble cast was compensated on a "most-favored nations" basis, receiving equal salaries along with a share of potential backend profits.

Various sets, including a small chapel, an Etruscan-style open-air bathhouse, a fountain, and formal gardens, were constructed at the villa.

[6] In early 1993, Warner Bros. Pictures executives viewed the film with interest in distributing it, but subsequent negotiations led Goldwyn to opt for self-distribution.

[6] Internationally, the film had a rare four-week run at the American Trade Center in Moscow, Russia, where ticket sales were conducted in U.S. dollars.

On September 29, 1993, Goldwyn launched a special educational promotion targeting high school and college students, offering discounted admissions and free study guides.

[9] Vincent Canby of The New York Times also wrote the film a positive review, praising Branagh's direction and calling it "ravishing entertainment".

"[12] Peter Travers of Rolling Stone gave the film a negative review, praising some moments as "invigorating fun", but ultimately calling it "overripe".

[13] Most of the negative criticisms focused on particular casting choices, notably Keanu Reeves as Don John, and Michael Keaton as Dogberry.