Anonymous
Director: Roland Emmerich
Actors: Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave, David Thewlis
PlotSet against the backdrop of the Elizabethan era, the story delves into a contentious theory that the works attributed to William Shakespeare were actually penned by someone else. The narrative follows Edward de Vere, the Earl of Oxford, a nobleman with a penchant for the arts and a complex relationship with the ruling class. As political intrigue and courtly maneuvers plague England, Edward finds solace in his writing, producing plays and sonnets that captivate audiences and critique the establishment. However, being of noble birth, he cannot openly associate with the theatrical world due to his social standing. To ensure his work reaches the public, Edward secretly recruits an imposter to take credit for his masterpieces.
As the ruse unfolds, the film intricately weaves through various subplots involving Queen Elizabeth I, the succession to the throne, and the power struggles among the nobility. The lives of the characters are entangled in a web of deception, ambition, and suppressed creativity. As these tensions converge, the true authorship of the celebrated plays becomes a focal point, questioning the legitimacy of historical records and exploring the sacrifices made for artistic expression. The story maintains a sharp focus on identity, legacy, and the transformative power of literature amidst a chaotic political landscape.
Writers: John Orloff
Release Date: 28 Oct 2011
Runtime: 130 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United Kingdom, Germany, United States
Language: English, French, Italian, Greek, Ancient (to 1453)
Home Video Reviews
A visually stunning, well-acted period piece; 'Anonymous' weaves a complex narrative questioning Shakespearean authorship, though marred by excess ambition. Superb Blu-ray audiovisuals and supplementary content make it worth exploring.
Read our review of Anonymous Blu-ray to find out more