Love is the only inspiration

Starring: Gwyneth Paltrow, Joseph Fiennes, Geoffrey Rush, Colin Firth, Ben Affleck, Judi Dench, Steven O'Donnell, TIm McMullan

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"I know something of a woman in a man's profession. Yes, by God, I do know about that." - Queen Elizabeth

Why watch this? This is a period piece that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Plot Summary: A young, struggling William Shakespeare finds himself battling a serious case of writer's block while trying to craft a new comedy titled Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate's Daughter. His creative slump is cured by a passionate romance with a wealthy, disguised woman named Viola, who defies social conventions to pursue her love of acting. As their affair deepens and the play is rewritten into a tragedy, the lovers must confront numerous obstacles posed by societal expectations and their existing commitments.

Dad's Preview: I was in a Shakespeare play in college (I know, unbelievable, right?), and the experience was fascinating. All the cast members had to get into the language of the time. This film is a wonderful play within a play that gives us some insights into Shakespeare himself, his cohorts and a woman he might have loved. It also dismantles the sexism of the times. Enjoy this little journey back to the days of yore, and spend some time with the world's most famous Bard.

The Bedford Falls Company; Miramax Films