Deserved Best Picture

Rating: 10/10 (23 November 2009)

Many people bring up this picture as the epitome of an inappropriately-awarded Oscar. I disagree wholeheartedly. I can think of more egregious examples off the top of my head ("Forrest Gump", "American Beauty").
This film was expertly crafted, as the reality of Shakespeare's writing his classic love story was interwoven with his personal love life. Such an innovative plot almost deserves an Oscar for that alone. Despite the underlying love story, it's not so syrupy that you lose interest. The film is also a parody on Hollywood and the concessions made on productions. For example, the major money contributors are given roles in the play, despite their qualifications.
This is a fun, romantic film with great performances all around. Give me a film with British actors anytime rather than the dimwits we have in America. Such a great cast!---Dame Judy Dench, Joseph Fiennes, Jim Carter, Simon Callow, Rupert Everett (in a cameo), Tom Wilkinson and above all, Geoffrey Rush (not a Brit but close). Rush is hilarious and has the best comic lines in the film. The same year he was in one of my favorite films "Elizabeth" as he shows his range in playing a serious role--which he nailed.
Gwenneth Paltrow's Oscar was well-deserved--as was Dench's.
The music is extremely uplifting and definitely adds to the buoyancy of the film.
This is a funny, romantic film for adults and is well worth your time.