The most delightful film I have seen all year!

Rating: 10/10 (3 January 1999)

As a fan of all things Shakespeare I experienced all the emotions possible watching 'Shakespeare in Love'. From joy to passion, longing to loss. Beginning with a brilliant script written by Tom Stoppard appeals to the masses who aren't familiar with the Bard's work, as well as those who are well versed and will catch a fair share of the in jokes and literary as well as historical references made to Mr. Will Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) and his contemporaries. Not meant as a a literal depiction of Shakespeare's life, the film gives us a what-if-it-happened-like-this scenario that takes us through the development of one of his most famous works 'Romeo and Juilet'. Finding his muse and true love in noblewoman Viola (Gwenyth Paltrow) who longs to trod the boards - a big no-no in Elizabethan England - Shakespeare creates 'R & J' around their romance and the circumstances that surround it. Although Paltrow is getting well-deserved raves for her performance, the real credit should go to Fiennes who breathes life into a man who has been seen for centuries as a literary icon, more than as a man. Fiennes carries us through the film sharing all of the emotions, tribulations, and triumphs that Will goes through. Two other notable performances are given by Geoffrey Rush, and Judi Dench.
No one will be disappointed seeing 'Shakespeare in Love' - a must see.