Anonymous

There is power in words and Anonymous proves that the pen is as mighty as the sword. For centuries learned men have applied ink to paper to either question, support, or refute the authorship of Shakespeare’s plays. There are many theories on who wrote these celebrated works from Ben Johnson, Christopher Marlowe to Edward de Vere the Earl of Oxford, but instead of a dry academic debate Roland Emmerich has given us an exciting politic intrigue full of machinations, betrayals, and Royal incest.

Anonymous is based on the theory that William Shakespeare was a buffoon and frontman for the true author of his plays Edward de Vere (Rhys Ifans) the Earl of Oxford. Edward de Vere was a Renaissance man who had his talents suppressed when he was obliged to bow to the authority of William Cecil, the Puritan advisor of Queen Elizabeth. He wrote his plays in secret to give voice to his artistic angst, but when public theatre became popular he saw it as a way to influence the masses. In the theatre one voice can reach, influence and impress many minds. He saw an opportunity to sway public opinion and he took it.

Whether you agree or disagree with the theory presented, Anonymous is rich, pleasing, stimulating and thoroughly entertaining. The art direction is fabulous, the sets and costumes are meticulously detailed and lush and Vanessa Redgrave gives an enlightening portrayal of Queen Elizabeth that reminds us of what an exciting actress she has always been. Rhys Ifans proves himself to be completely underrated as an actor. To compare this performance with his role in Notting Hill will blow your mind and showcase the man’s versatility. And David Thewlis, hiding under all that make-up, illustrates a talent that is undeniable. In fact this film is full of young British actors who display that the next generation is in very good hands. Rafe Spall is delightful as William Shakespeare and Edward Hogg is fascinating as Robert Cecil. This film is full of note-worthy performances.

I, like many people, struggled with Shakespeare in school because I couldn’t relate to the language or the time. But please don’t let the subject matter keep you away. This is an exciting film full of humor, action, and deceitful manipulations. It is as juicy as any soap opera, tele nova, or drama today. In fact, Shakespeare was the most popular writer of his time. He wrote for the groundlings as well as the nobles and his plays resonate on many levels. Anonymous is one of those rare films that leave you wanting more and it may even drive you back to the library to read his plays. There is a reason that Shakespeare's works have survived the ages. Everyone loves a good story and this is a good one.

Rating: First Run Drama abounds