REVIEW: Anonymous (12A)

There are probably more theories about who wrote the works of William Shakespeare than there are plays that bear his name. Anonymous adds to the conspiracy theory list by suggesting that Edward de Vere, Earl of Oxford (played brilliantly by Rhys Ifans) actually wrote them but, because of his position in society, it was inappropriate for that fact to be known.



The movie is full of political intrigue and has some fantastic scenery and tremendous set-pieces. The conceit is maintained well throughout and the theory/fiction, depending on your point of view, is linked into history to make it enjoyably believable.


Vanessa Redgrave's frail and aging Queen Elizabeth I is tremendous - if Judy Dench can get an Oscar for her 8-minute portrayal of Elizabeth I in Shakespeare In Love then Ms. Redgrave is a show-in for one next Spring.

Shakespeare, himself, is initally portrayed as an illiterate buffoon by Rafe Spall before becoming rather more stute and making the most of the "situation".

For me, the outstanding performance was that of Sebastian Armesto (King Ferdinand VI in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides ) who took on the role of Ben Jonson the poet who the Earl of Oxford originally offers his plays to before Will Shakespeare.


Sadly, Sony, in their wisdom, have limited the release of Anonymous to 250 cinemas believing that the British public won't "get it" and will be put off by a movie about Shakespeare. I don't know whether this is a reflection of an idiotic business decision or an idiotic nation.


Definitely worth going to see.