Delightfully droll

Rating: 7/10 (30 April 2006)

Best Picture Oscar winner is a highly enjoyable frolic, roguish and mischievous, with an exceptional cast. Fictional story takes place in 1593 England, with writer William Shakespeare stuck in a creative drought, eventually inspired to write "Romeo and Juliet" while having a passionate love affair with a Lady of the Court. Clever piece is pure invention, but so what? Amusing and fast-paced, it is a film in love with the theater, a valentine to actors and the creative process. Winner of seven Academy Awards in total, including Gwyneth Paltrow as Best Actress and Judi Dench as Supporting Actress (for her sparkling turn as Queen Elizabeth), also Best Screenplay and Costumes. *** from ****