In very limited release is this weeks Anonymous. It has long been speculated that William Shakespeare did not write all those classic plays, poets and sonnets. But actually another man, or a series of other men. But the political climate of the day demanded another be credited.
Well in this movie, they put out a strong case that the actual writer of all of the above was actually Edward De Vere, who at the time was the Earl of Oxford. They go so far as to paint the actual Shakespeare as a lying, cheating, actor and illiterate who came upon the title of being great by accident, and skulduggery. De Vere confides in another playwright of the era, Ben Johnson who becomes a messenger of sorts. Sort of taking credit for De Vere's plays in the late 1500's. Shakespeare then starts taking credit for Johnson's work, which is actually De Vere's. It sounds complicated, and at times it is.
Anonymous looks great. Wonderful sets depict the era magnificently, and the costuming is terrific too. Told in flashback form, at times it can be hard to follow, but as time goes on more and more becomes clear to it's credit. This movie does have a slow spot or two, but pacing gets better as time rolls on.
Rhys Ifans is great as De Vere, and remember the name Sebastian Armesto. He is fantastic as Johnson. He delivers one of the best, if not the best supporting performance of the year. His scenes near the end of this movie are the kind that win you Oscars at years end. He dominates this movie in the scenes where he is present.
Anonymous, with it's subject matter and movie making style will not find a big audience. But this might be the movie that will be shown more after the awards shows announce their nominations later this season. Very similar to The Kings Speech last year. As more people became aware of it, the better known it became. Anonymous certainly in the same regard will be in the awards conversation. It's the kind of movie Hollywood loves to pat itself on its own back over. An artsy movie-about art. But don't construe that as sarcasm. Anonymous very good.
Anonymous. If you are a movie goer it would be worth the drive to see this. If not, this will be the best movie this year that nobody sees.
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It is great to read a review of the film instead of the theory. I was completely wrapped up in this film from start to finish. The acting, costumes design etc. Not a note out of place. I swear I could smell the mud, the burning tapers, and taste the wine. Not many films are that all consuming. Am I surprised it was a Roland Emmerich film? You bet, but much better to be surprised than disappointed.
I really hope it does well at the Oscars.
AT
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