This film recounts the life and times of a 17th century poet who wallowed in drink and debauchery. This is a dull and dreary film that not only tells an ugly story about an uninteresting fellow, but also looks ugly. The cinematography is gray and grainy, making for a very depressing viewing experience. The script is too murky. It starts with Depp seemingly talking to the audience from beyond the grave and goes downhill from there. The dialog is too pretentious and there's too much of it. It's just an unpleasant way to spend a couple of hours. Depp tries hard and there are other good actors, but they are given little to work with. Curiously this is the only directorial credit of Dunmore.
Review of The Libertine
