The movie itself, was never released in our area. I have an inkling that it was considered too 'risqué'! Maybe, maybe not. But in all consideration, after purchasing the DVD and watching the movie last night - I would strongly commit myself to say the city in which I live, the theater managers, are practicing censorship! And that's wrong!! Now, that I've said my piece, I'll continue with my opinion of the movie.
It stars Johnny Depp and Samantha Morton. I love period pieces/biographies such as this, and I 'set down for the movie' knowing a bit of the background of the Earl of Rochester. And his known 'ludeness', to put it mildly.
The 2nd Earl of Rochester, John Wilmot, was banished by the courts under Charles II. Yet, his work and poetry remain. He was known for taudry and 'unspeakable' lampoons on the stage. Yet, he coached and 'created' one of the world famous actresses, Elizabeth Barry. She was also a mistress of the Earl. Among many other women of his chosing.
He lay dying of syphillis at the end of his young life.
BUT--now to the movie. If you wish to watch a good historical piece, and love the England of the 17th century -- along with a bit of pervereted sexual-behavior display with the playwright and life fantasies, this is a movie for you.
Again, our dear beloved Johnny Depp carried his portrayal to the top! This man can play anyone, anywhere, anyhow and carry it off with pizzazz!! He played the Earl just as I have had the man pictured when reading my history books.
The England setting is foggy, dingy, full of disease on the streets, like I had pictured myself. The King is played by John Malkovich.
And this is where the movie really begins to become involved, the King wants the Earl to write a play about his life (The King's). And when the play is finished and staged.....the Earl is banished! Because of the stage sets, and the actual fornication depicted of the king's life --which in the history books is true. King Charles DID have many bastard children.
After the banishment, the story continues and shows the Earl fighting for dignity, yet really not caring-dying from syphillis...all in all, it's a great historical piece.
Not for the weak stomach...the ending part of the Earl's life is quite graphic, a great make up! ---And again, Johnny Depp is brilliant!! His wife and mother are with him at the end of it all. His King's court appearance near the end and Johnny Depp's portrayal of a syphillitic man--speaking to the King's court is outstanding!! --The movie ends in a life's play of the Earl of Rochester--starring none other than his student--Elizabeth Barry.
(It's not for young children under 17!!!!!!! - like viewing a video of playboy, 17th century style --but, only at times--not through the entire movie - it actually DOES have literary content and acting--not a typical romance novelistic movie tho--why the carriage ride in the first few minutes will be 'enlightening'....hehehehehe) <--in my opinion!!
Ramblins of a middle-aged goddess * Mitey Mite * Melli * Tracy S * *
5 Comments:
You REALLY REALLY REALLY love Johnny Depp...Well soon you will be able to see him on the BIG screen. I am trying to talk my hubby into going tomorrow night too. It will depend on when he gets home. Happy for you that soon you can go and enjoy your idol....have a great day!!!!
I don't recall this movie, either -- sounds like one I need to watch, though. I'm a bit of a history buff, too.
Wow... I never even HEARD of this one - much less have I seen it! I am, however, already feeling enlightend! Like Flip-flop -- I am GLAD that your movie love is coming back to the BIG screen for you! I hope you have a theater that really DOES have a BIG screen! I find that the Big Screen keeps getting smaller in theaters -- while televisions keep getting larger at home!
I have never even heard of this one either.. But I can see by the huge countdown to the new Pirate movie you are a HUGE Johnny fan.. I think he is awesome too.. and oh so sexy ;)
I may have to check this out if I can find it.
Thank you so much for the information regarding the pirate movie you left on my blog :) this morning.
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