Shakespeare in Love is a lovely film that came out in 1998. I remember seeing it in the theatre and thoroughly enjoying it. I watched it again on DVD and it is just as charming, funny, and romantic as ever. I'm sure you know the story so I will be brief. Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) has lost his writing inspiration. He has been paid, somewhat, to write Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate King's Daughter: a comedy. By chance he sees Viola (Gwyneth Paltrow), and falls head over heels in love at first sight. She wants to be a player, loves his writing, and somehow shows up at an audition (dressed as a boy by the name of Thomas Kent) for Shakespeare's new play. Unlike all the other actors auditioning, she uses one of Shakespeare's speeches which he is naturally taken with. This leads to Kent being cast, but also Shakespeare following him back to his house to discover that he is a she. Sparks fly, romance thrives, yet disaster awaits as Viola has been promised to be married - and women are not allowed on stage.
Written by Marc Norman, and the amazing Tom Stoppard, the film was directed by John Madden. It was the first film that I remember seeing Joseph Fiennes in, though he had been in a few prior. It had Geoffrey Rush (post Shine fame), Dame Judi Dench, Ben Affleck, and the return of the wonderful pairing of Colin Firth and Rupert Everett (uncredited). One of the first gay romance movies I saw had Firth and Everett in it so I'm always happy when they are in a film together - even if they don't have any scenes together.
The characters are a mix of historical and fictional characters, while the language is somewhat poetic all the way through. There are quite a few hints of other Shakespeare works scattered throughout the film - some fun Easter Eggs for those with a good ear, and a good knowledge of Shakespeare. The film has been adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, and is available for production if interested. If you haven't seen the film, or it has been a while, take the time and revisit it. I think you will agree on how sweet it is.
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