One of the most cherished, endearing, and wonderful comedies of the decade.

Rating: 10/10 (7 February 1999)

This film, Shakespeare in Love, is a very well crafted comedy. The art direction is absolutely exquisite. It makes you feel like you are actually in London at 1527. I salute John Madden's excellent art direction. The writing is absolutely brilliant. Tom Stoppard and Marc Norman wrote probably the most imaginative and best screenplay of this year. This screenplay is funny, touching, romantic, erotic, and in some cases, heart-breaking. One of the best acting performances this year came from this film. Joseph Fiennes is absolutely taintless as the troubled playwright. Geoffrey Rush gives a very funny and outstanding supporting performance. Ben Affleck also gives a well thought out performance as the upstart actor. But, this film's spotlight goes to the talented Gwyenth Paltrow. Although she has shown she can do period comedies in Emma, she shows she can be a demanding presence on screen as a lead role,as a love interest, and as a very interesting character actress. All in all, this is a film that everyone should see. This is on my Top Ten list as Best Films of 1998 and Best Film of the 90's.