The Libertine – 2005 | 107 mins | Drama | Colour

Plot Synopsis

Adapted by Stephen Jeffreys from his own Royal Court Theatre play, Johnny Depp showcases his full range of acting talents as the scandalously decadent John Wilmot, the second Earl of Rochester and acclaimed 17th century poet. Graphic designer turned director Laurence Dunmore makes an assured directorial debut, creating a dialogue-heavy and visually arresting period atmosphere that combines the dark debauched underbelly of London with the allure and glamour of the Restoration court.

Set in 17th century England, the film concentrates on the final years of John Wilmot’s (Johnny Depp) exploits in London. Estranged from his long suffering wife (Rosamund Pike), the self-destructive Earl lurches from a passionate romance with a spirited young actress, Elizabeth Barry (Samantha Morton), to the writing of a scurrilously satirical play which blisteringly and bawdily lampoons the very monarch who commissioned it, King Charles II (John Malkovich). This leads to the debauched Earl’s banishment and eventual demise, succumbing to syphilis at the age of 33, only to earn posthumous critical acclaim for his life’s work.