Finally a script that doesn't insult your intelligence.

Rating: Null/10 (9 February 1999)

A well crafted film that will certainly be viewed as a classic. By far, the majority of viewers come away enraptured with this wonderful film. Gwyneth Paltrow shines in her best film since "Emma". The true wealth of this film lies in its ability to use the entire cast to full effect. Though the supporting cast remains secondary, their contribution adds the flavor to the main dish--which of course is the relationship between Shakespeare and Violet. Geoffrey Rush got the nod for the best supporting actor, yet in truth, his role is no larger nor better performed than the entire ensemble. The added bonus to this film--which appears the only criticism by some who claim they were dissapointed--is that it is sufficiently contemporary to be easily understood, while retaining the essence of the time period. Some purists and elitists may feel that any loss of Elizabethan dialogue is a slap to Shakespeare. This group undoubtedly hates "West Side Story" for the same reasons. Don't believe it! This film is worthy of best film of the year, and in fact is probably the only real competition for "Saving Private Ryan". It is too bad they appeared in the same year, since the loss of the Oscar to either film is an unavoidable tragedy. This is a must see!