Title: Anonymous
Director: Roland Emmerich
Starring: Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave, David Thewlis, Sebastian Armesto, Rafe Spall, Edward Hogg, Xavier Samuel, Sam Reid, Jamie Campbell Bower, Joely Richardson
“Anonymous” takes the often debated real-life conspiracy theory surrounding the authenticity of the literary treasures composed by William Shakespeare, and produces a 130 minute political drama in which the famed author acted as a catalyst that sparked controversy to the throne in England. And when we say author, we (specifically director Roland Emmerich & writer John Orloff) are not referring to the lauded man himself.
Just as the promo poster reads, this flick asks the question if William Shakespeare was in fact a fraud? And does so in an indirect manner revolving around the shady political climate that pushes to the forefront in late 16th century England. Even if you’re are not well-read on your Shakespeare conspiracy theories, the script shows its hand within the first 30 minutes on who they believe to be the true writer of all the heralded works. And it also introduces William Shakespeare in a light that will surprise, and most certainly piss-off, a lot of people. But if you take that secondary plot point out the equation, this story is essentially a wordy political battle of deception and infidelity (standard in regal politics around that time).
People are lobbying for which family will take control of the crown once Elizabeth I finally decomposes. Two factions are playing a game of chess as deals are made to keep the balance of power within the castle walls in turmoil. Director Roland Emmerich is also playing a game of chess with his decent-sized cast of characters; and when he finally puts them in a position to act – which also paints a clearer picture for the audience, for they are playing a lot of catch-up early on – the piece is flowing effortlessly. Problem that arises is that it takes a while for the story to really rope us in and we may need our own writer’s quill to keep track of the abundance of characters and their respective ranks; especially since this screenplay flashes back to younger versions of the main players without any warning.
The political aspect of this story isn’t all that interesting simply because it’s a retread of the typical angles found in period-piece dramas. Obviously the hook is how William Shakespeare – a minor character in the grand scheme of things – launches himself into fame off the writings of another man, Earl of Oxford (Rhys Ifans); who has his own rationale and agenda for remaining anonymous. Watching Ifans’ character maneuver through the political obstacle course of the time can be fascinating, but that’s because the costuming and set designs are exquisite to explore. Emmerich seemingly created another world with grand landscapes of castles and courtyards, famous theaters and the gritty streets that surround them. Aside from the obvious hook, the true star is the architecture and appointments that create the realm where Shakespeare rose to a household name.
Ironically, this screenplay plays out just like a patented Shakespearean tragedy would. And that’s clearly the goal and trying to do it any other way, in terms of a stylistic approach, probably would have been foolhardy. While the acting and the atmosphere are impeccable, the majority of the story is long-winded and pieced together awkwardly at times. That said, the interest levels are always there because the secondary plot (Shakespeare) doesn’t receive true closure until the very end. The third and final act is really worth the wait via the lackluster storytelling of the first two acts.
Overall, Anonymous is a nice conspiracy tale that covers all the bases. Solid acting and spot-on set designs provide that elusive escapism feeling. And there’s always a sense of provocation based on the valid question that slowly gets answered through the political drama. The delivery is misguided at times (perhaps one too many characters) but like a game of chess; if you have patience, things will come together and you’ll get a verdict one way or another. There is no stale mate (open-ended).
Technical: B+
Story: C+
Acting: B
Overall: B
Review by Joe Belcastro
