A biographical drama in which an ailing Oscar Wilde tries to make ends meet while exiled in France.
Courageous Oscar Wilde biopic, written, directed by and starring a sensational Rupert Everett.
Even if his prosthetics make him look a bit like James May, Everett is near-flawless, and his film is a superb showcase for an actor whose celebrity has at times overshadowed his talent. There’s been plenty of due diligence in terms of the details, and anyone who thinks Wilde was just the Stephen Fry of his day will learn a lot here.
Everett makes [Wilde] seem like a character in one of his own fairy tales, ultimately achieving grace and redemption through his own suffering.
A poignant story that is almost eclipsed by the egoistic frolics of its creator.
The film has its heart in the right place and Everett clearly understands the pain Wilde endured in his final years, but as a writer/director, he’s not quite up to the task of making its fractured structure compelling.
Director and star Rupert Everett struggles to shine through the gimmickry.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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