An Oscar-winning historical drama featuring a barely recognisable Hollywood star is now available for streaming at no cost.
BBC iPlayer has recently added Shakespeare in Love to its collection, perfect for theatre and romantic comedy enthusiasts to enjoy.
Premiered in 1998, the film boasts a cast of Oscar winners including Gwyneth Paltrow, Colin Firth and Ben Affleck. It also features Dame Judi Dench in a role that almost entirely conceals the renowned actress.
For those who missed this popular romantic drama, it tells the story of young playwright William Shakespeare (portrayed by Joseph Fiennes) as he struggles with writer’s block.
In his search for a new muse, William encounters his ideal woman, Viola (Paltrow), and is inspired to pen one of his most famous plays, Romeo and Juliet, reports the Mirror.
Dame Dench portrays Queen Elizabeth I, adopting the hair, makeup and 16th century attire to suit the Royal character. Despite appearing on screen for only about eight minutes, Dench’s performance won her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
The drama’s accolades didn’t end there, as Shakespeare in Love also clinched the Best Picture award, along with the Best Costume; Best Original Music; Best Screenplay, and Best Art Direction awards. Paltrow also secured the Best Leading Actress award, which remains her sole Oscar victory to date.
Helmed by John Madden, the period drama boasts an outstanding 92% Rotten Tomatoes score.
The critics’ consensus reads: “Endlessly witty, visually rapturous, and sweetly romantic, Shakespeare in Love is a delightful romantic comedy that succeeds on nearly every level.”
Cinema enthusiasts have equally praised the nineties masterpiece, with one fan penning: “Incredibly heart-warming and wildly entertaining, this movie has something for everybody, and it is so much fun to watch. I definitely recommend it for romance and comedy fans!”
Another commented: “I absolutely love this movie, it’s a timeless classic and an absolute must see. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll fall in love with the characters.
“It’s quoted almost daily in my household, and rightfully so! If you haven’t seen it already, I highly recommend this movie!”
A third viewer declared: “Simply put, this is a fun film that never lacks for comedy. Everyone in this film portrays their parts with elegance. And as if to top the entire film off, Dame Judi Dench plays a rather fantastically entertaining Queen Elizabeth I.”
Shakespeare in Love is streaming now on BBC iPlayer.