The Film Reports

5 stars

Comedy, Drama, History

Some context: I haven’t read much Shakespeare and that includes Romeo and Juliet which is what this film is inspired by. Even so, it’s easy to get caught up in the stories that are running parallel to each other; both the play that Will is writing (which turns out to be Romeo and Juliet) and his love story with Viola which inspires the play. Just don’t think this film employs truth at all times – it doesn’t. Not much is known about young Shakespeare and the film plays with that.

The plot is very simple but in true Shakespearean fashion, it all very quickly goes haywire. Will Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) has promised his next play to two different theatres without having even written it. He’s “lost his gift” and is told that he must fall in love in order to be able to write again. Enter Viola de Lesseps (Gwyneth Paltrow), who is a fan of Shakespeare’s work and wants to be an actor. Will sees her and is inspired to start writing again. Viola hears about this new play and decides to audition under cover, as Thomas Kent.

The film is very funny. There is constant humour, right through the serious parts too. Some of it is quite vulgar but it’s handled well and isn’t sleazy. The best part however, is the romance. If you ignore the fact that the main two characters are in love with each other before they meet, it’s perfect. It’s easily one of the most romantic movies I’ve ever seen, and I think quite realistic too. Honestly, the whole film manages to stay grounded despite some of the more ridiculous things that go on.

In conclusion, I love this film. I’ve only seen it the one time but I already want to watch it again and is definitely one of my all time favourites.

Watch it: date night? Or a girls night in.