"The show must..."
SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE (R) 
Reviewed January 8, 1999 - Check out the Shakespeare in Love Website.
Directed by John Madden, Shakespeare in Love is a pure period fantasy, spinning a fictional tale of William Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) in his youth. Shakespeare, struggling with a severe case of writer's block, is trying to write a comedy called Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate's Daughter. What's it about? When will it be ready? Will there be a dog in it? So many questions, but Shakespeare has no answers. What he needs, he thinks, is a muse--someone to inspire him and drive his work.
Enter Viola de Lesseps (Gwyneth Paltrow), a young woman of stature who dreams of being on stage. However, in a time when women were not allowed on stage, Viola has to pursue her ambitions in a most unusual way--by pretending to be a man.
This is just one of many Shakespearean twists in this creative, rich, and humorous film about Shakespeare in love. As you'd expect, a romance blossoms between Will and Viola, and this romance both mirrors and inspires Shakespeare's work (eventually retitled Romeo and Juliet). In the meantime, Shakespeare has to juggle the concerns of struggling theater-owner Philip Henslowe (Geoffrey Rush), the wrath of Viola's jilted husband-to-be, the Earl of Wessex (Colin Firth), not to mention the ego of some difficult actors (Ben Affleck) as he tries to get his play produced. Oh, what a mess, but what a fun and entertaining mess!!
Taking us along the journey towards opening night, Shakespeare in Love will no doubt be a delight to those who've grown to love the Shakespearean plot. Mistaken identities, misunderstood motives, impossible romances...it's all here in an energetic, passionate, comedic mix of twists and turns. With great performances by Fiennes, Paltrow, Rush, and Judi Dench (as Queen Elizabeth), Shakespeare in Love is a refreshingly smart film which successfully transports us to a different place and time. Give it a look!
Responses from cyberspace--thanks for writing!
jetemksr@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "I
love this movie" (1/21/01)
dwheelhouse@yahoo.co.uk
gives this movie stars: "this
is the best film i have ever seen.It's witty and has some gorgous actures.I
love shakesspere and this deos it proud. Daisy" (7/21/00)
hlong213@yahoo.com
gives this movie stars: "I
loved this movie. I think Joseph Finnes is absolutely wonderful. I only
wish I could find out more about him. The whole cast of this movie undoubtedly
did a splendid job. I look forward to seeing more of Joseph Finnes." (7/10/00)
Fuzzball gives this movie stars: "Really
top quality film. Gwyneth Paltrow was great and deserved her oscar. It
was definitely for romantics, but it wasn't too slushy. Joseph Fiennes
(whatever the spelling is) is a really good actor too, not to mention the
fact he's absolutely gorgeous!!!" (6/21/99)
nincure@aol.com gives
this movie stars: "this
movie is the best movie i've ever seen, i've seen it three times, and i
can't get enough, it's like i fell in love with a movie, i LOVE this movie!
:)" (6/18/99)
maria_tjulander@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars.
(3/29/99)
Iva Stoytcheva gives this movie stars: "A
touching, heartwarming and magical movie which took me away from the brutal
reality of life! The chemistry that existed between Paltrow and Fiennes
is a true depiction of real passionate love(one which is hard to find today).
The performance of all the actors was extraordinary along with the amazing
costumes and set designs! Joseph Fiennes showed deep artistic talent in
way of expression and was overall irresistable! This was one of the best
movies I've seen in years!!!" (3/22/99)
finkela@stud.fak11.uni-muenchen.de
gives this movie stars: "Shakespeare
in love is a smashing and absolutely wonderful piece of work! I was completely
and utterly absorbed throughout the whole film. It is worth every single
minute and I will watch it at least one more time. Paltrow and Fiennes
seem really to be in love." (3/11/99)
rrrrrr gives this movie stars: "I
saw SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE, it sucks. The movie is really mushy and it's 100%
chick movie. There is a mushy kissing scene every 10 minutes. Gwyneth Paltrow
is naked in the movie. I wish she would put her clothes on, her naked body
is disgusting to look at. She has a body of an anorexic teenage boy. Joseph
Fiennes plays Shakespeare. Joseph Fiennes is really feminine looking and
also anorexic looking." (2/28/99)
RoseD217@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "This
was wonderful. It was so romantic. I was something like that would happen
to me. But it's all fantasy. But it's such a great fantasy." (2/28/99)
Pepsi99Grl@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "If
I could find the right words to explain the feeling this movies gave me
I would.The absolute true meaning of love is there.The actors/actresses
displayed the greatest performances of all.If I had the opportunity to
take part in that movie I'm sure it would have changed my life.Oscar winning
for sure.A special acclaim for Joseph Finnes & Gwyeneth Paltrow!" (2/28/99)
Tim Ambrim gives this movie 
stars: "Great
movie! But the person who commented on how it's imposssible to have a Virginia
plantation has forgotten Roanoke Island and the mystery of the colony's
disappearance. Didn't anyone watch Storm of the Century? Jamestown did
come later; in the reign of King James, not Queen Elizabeth." (2/27/99)
mercury_1981@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars: "It
was a great film where the actors didn't seem to be acting, but feeling
the emotion. Fiennes did an amazing job ( I loved his eyes, they're beautifull)
as did Paltrow. The queen was excellently portrayed, if not always realistic.
But all in all in was a great film, inspiring and spiritually lifting (except
the end). Well done" (2/27/99)
Joseph Grai gives this movie stars: "wow
and must see" (2/26/99)
jwfinnie31@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "At
beginning of the movie, the year 1594 flashes on the screen. Paltrow is
betrothed to a Virginia plantation owner. The English did not establish
Jamestown until 1607" (2/26/99)
erosmagic@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "How
can one not be moved by this wonderfully magic, hypnotic, film? It transports
the soul to that place where love comes alive and you are no longer aware
that you are sitting in a movie theatre. If ever there was a film that
captures the essence of the fever and beauty of love then this is it! Great
performances from all involved.Real magic this one!" (2/25/99)
ryandep@spacestar.net
gives this movie stars: "BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzz BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ" (2/25/99)
crickett@terraworld.net
gives this movie stars: "I
thought this movie was absolutely brillant. I thought Joseph Fiennes was
very appropraite for the role, he played it with greatness, and much sex
appeal. I am not too fond of Paltrow, but she also did a good job." (2/24/99)
jfmcjr@aol.com gives
this movie stars: "Has
there been another movie with the wit and spirit of "Shakespeare in
Love" since "Tom Jones" in 1961? I think not. A film of
rapturous romance and sparkling intelligence, "Shakespeare in Love"
is two hours of delight with a cast of great actors appearing to have the
time of their lives and a luminous Gwyneth Paltrow in a star-making performance.
The literate yet accessible Stoppard/Norman script manages to amuse both
the Shakespeare fan and the ordinary moviegoer who never realized until
now just how much fun the Bard should be." (2/23/99)
fmhsbhardin@mdeca4.mdeca.ohio.gov
gives this movie stars: "I
loved this movie! The last movie I was this excited about was The English
Patient, and is it not ironic that the two main characters of these movies
are brothers? What fine actors! Gwyneth Paltrow, an actress who has never
caught my attention, certainly acted splendidly in this feature. I have
seen this movie four times already." (2/23/99)
Halcyon81@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "Shakespeare
In Love is a wonderful comedic, tragic, wistful and sorrowful romance brialliantly
constructed around the basis of many of Shakespeare's works. Allusions
to the writings of this legend abound in the movie and are recreated in
interesting and exciting new ways. The only conflict I had with the movie
was a lack of emotion. No matter how hard I wanted to shed tears for the
lovers, I couldn't do it. But other than that it was by far superior to
most movies in theaters today." (2/22/99)
scalloway@prodigy.net
gives this movie stars: "The
best movie I have seen in a long time. I loved every minute from beginning
to end. I laughed and I cried, and I fell in love with Joseph Fiennes.
I especially loved all the sly Shakespearian references and got a special
kick out of the young John Webster and his love of gore!" (2/22/99)
keleaf@aol.com gives
this movie stars: "I
saw it twice today!! Will Shakespeare would heartily approve of the wit,
the electricity and passion, the mix of humor, lust and tragedy, all in
one, one for all his audiences. Paltrow was lovely, and I'm falling for
Fiennes! Sweet dreams, all..." (2/20/99)
anonymous entry gives this movie stars: "I
will never tire of seeing this gorgeous movie over and over. Everything
about it is perfect, from the Shakespearian-like plot, the direction, screenplay,
direction and acting. this movie has affected me profoundly and has no
comparisin within the history of cinema. I truly loved it. (And is Joseph
Fiennes not the most gorgeous man in the whole world?)" (2/20/99)
gdroadtrip@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "Wonderfully
done. Poetic to the ear and sensual to the eye. A play within a play, and
all that." (2/20/99)
lil_kate@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars: "Beautiful
performance by Gwyneth and Joseph Fiennes! It is especially good if you're
familiar with Shakespeare's works." (2/17/99)
anna@senet.com.au
gives this movie stars: "This
movie really captures the true essence of the romantic period. It is a
wonderful and brilliant film that contains all the elements of a true Shakespearian
play such as love, death and comedy. All the actors displayed a great performance,
especially Gwyenth Paltrow, Joseph Finnes and Geoffery Rush. The film creates
what may have been the real inspiration for some of Shakespeares most credited
and famous pieces of work. This is deffinitely a must see film." (2/17/99)
KarisaAmy@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "It
was a fantastic movie, if you have read any Shakespeare you will enjoy
it even more. " (2/17/99)
J.L.ralph@wlv.ac.uk
gives this movie stars: "Not
in my wildest dreams did I think I'd enjoy this film as much as I did.
T'was beyond brilliance in my opinion, the elegance, the beauty, the script,the
reverence. Proving expenditure should take backseat to talent and plot,
this film should kick ass at the Oscars Fabulous references to Shakespeare's
plays and the influence of Marlow, but I fell in love with the ending,
(Not to mention Joseph Fiennes) Shakespeare In Love has untameable potential." (2/16/99)
smzollner@yahoo.com
gives this movie stars: "This
movie is witty and funny. It is truly great for all those that know and
enjoy Shakespeare and his writing style. The authors of the movie must
had had this in mind when they wrote this hilarious script. Besides being
funny, it is also romantic and while guys may yawn, almost any woman's
heart will be captured with delight." (2/16/99)
bboys4321@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "As
a teacher of Romeo and Juliet I was inspired by this movie's portrayal
of the young William Shakespeare and his masterful play. I have assigned
the movie as extra credit for my students and hope that they too become
inspired. John Madden did an excellent job weaving the story of Will and
Viola into the play Romeo and Juliet. I highly recommend it." (2/16/99)
redmaple_leaf@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars: "I
was completely inspired by this movie. I saw for a second time last night,
and would see it again. The acting was excellent. The movie left me breathless.
I wish that there were more films like this. It was amazing how many little
details were brought into the movie." (2/16/99)
ccambridge@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars: "This
movie was excellent. Everything from the acting to the costumes were amazing.
I don't know where Joseph Fiennes came from, but I'm glad he did, he stole
the movie." (2/16/99)
sron@rocketreader.com
gives this movie stars: "half
a star each for Ben Affleck, Judi Dench, Geoffrey Rush, costumes and set
design. But since when does approximately ten minutes of screen time earn
an Oscar nomination?? And when will everybody stop describing Gwyneth's
acting ability as "beautiful"? Being beautiful is not acting.
The whole film smacked of tryimg to make Shakespeare hip for the masses,
and putting Gwyneth in the main role cheapens it." (2/15/99)
sunfish@homemail.com
gives this movie stars: "It
was a wonderful surprise. I saw it on Valentine's Day and enjoyed it tremendously.
The writing was excellent, the acting was unusually good, and the atmosphere
of noisy, dirty, crowded Elizabethan London drew me immediately. A sad
but very well told story." (2/15/99)
audra@paonline.com
gives this movie stars: "This
movie left me breathless! Never have I been so moved. The film is a beautifully
crafed story told with touching and often sweet and funny sincerity. Noteworthy
performances are given by Affleck and Dench, with the magical chemistry
of Fiennes and Paltrow in the forefront. But my hat truly goes off to screenwriters
Norman and Stoppard (of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead fame). May
this film carry home as many Oscars it's cast and crew can carry!" (2/15/99)
tincow5000@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars: "I
couldn't understand anything they said. All the guys looked the same. I
didn't even know her character's name. Ben Affleck rocks. I loved the cod-pieces,
they were the highlight of the movie." (2/14/99)
bkhb@aol.com gives this
movie stars: "This
movie is awesome. Joseph Fiennes and Gwyneth Paltrow are delightful. There
is zing to this movie. There'll be more than a few oscars next month." (2/14/99)
pshelley@webworks2000.net
gives this movie stars: "Perfection
is the word for this movie.The storyline, acting,and costumes transport
you to Shakespeare's time. This movie is witty, dramatic, and touching.
This is definitely a must-see film." (2/14/99)
andreameyer@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars: "This
was an amazing movie! I went to see it expecting a good, funny film, but
came out completely inspired by its mix of Shakespearean twists and turns,
humorous plays on words, and the beautiful chemistry played out by Fiennes
and Paltrow. The only thing that could've made this movie a tiny bit better
would be if it would've been a little more fast paced at the beginning.
So, I recommend this movie for anyone who likes Shakespeare, Romeo and
Juliet, and a great romantic comedy!" (2/14/99)
jessi_lee@hotmail.com
gives this movie stars: "It
was such a terrific movie. Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes were phenomenal!
I was crying because it was so touching!" (2/13/99)
NrmBts1960@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "This
movie was simply amazing. The way the story of Romeo and Juliet was intertwined
with the life of a young Will was brilliantly done. I am just so dumbfounded
that Joseph Fiennes didn't get an Oscar Nominee for his incredible performance
in this incredible movie. I'd see it again in a second. Another thing that
made the movie was Paltrow, Dench, and those beautiful costumes. If this
doesn't get Best Picture, there is something truly wrong!" (2/13/99)
jagged@alphalink.com.au
gives this movie stars: "What
a film!! Shakespeare in Love was touching, witty, humorous and romantic
- all at once. Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes gave brilliant performances!!!
This film should take home most of the Oscars it was nominated for. Go
Gwyneth!!!!!" (2/13/99)
mathc3@aol.com gives
this movie 
stars: "This
film is a wonderful work of acting and superior directing. It is a passionate
and humorous love story with insights into life and romance. It is such
a vibrant and joyful film, it is hard not to be pulled in by it. It well-deserved
its 13 Oscar nominations, and it should be taking home a good number of
them. Extremely impressive performances by Paltrow, Rush, Dench, Fiennes,
Callow, and Firth. Joseph Fiennes and Gwenyth Paltrow have a natural and
believable chemistry. Paltrow is simply radiant. This is easily 1998's
most satisfying and romantic film. Also, the best film of 1998. Near the
end, as well, the film is incredibly moving and touching. The last shot
is a doozy. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful film of beauty and drama and
comedy. Many tones are blended together seemlessly. a remarkable achievement
by all involved." (2/12/99)
jkelley@bspmalw.com
gives this movie stars: "Awesome
movie!!! This film touched my heart hours after I left the theatre. One
of the best romance stories I've ever seen. Beautifully done and spectacular
acting. I wouldn't doubt that this movie will be taking home a good number
of awards." (2/11/99)
macchick99@aol.com
gives this movie stars: "This
is an incredible film with amazing performances. I see oscar written all
over this one. I still can feel the movie, several hours after I saw it." (2/10/99)
