My two bits on 1998 Best Picture

Rating: 9/10 (16 April 1999)

I was surprised but not disappointed when this won Best Picture (especially after Spielberg pulled in Best Director) For me it is quite difficult to compare this movie to "Private Ryan" They are so obviously different.
These two films force people to choose between an emotionally wrought epic and a finely crafted and witty script. Private Ryan's biggest faults, although this is nit-picking, were the acting and the overall story. The two areas where "Shakespeare" shines. I agree with those who claim "Ryan" will be remembered in film history longer, a good but not totally convincing argument in its favor.
"Shakespeare in Love," should in no way be compared to last year's Best Picture atrocity "Titanic" with its lame script with no soul. It's all about the writing!