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Anonymous
2011 130 min Germany, United Kingdom, United States of America PG-13 16+
★6.8
Drama, History, Thriller
Director: Roland Emmerich
Trailers
Description
Set against the backdrop of the succession of Queen Elizabeth I, and the Essex Rebellion against her, the story advances the theory that it was in fact Edward De Vere, Earl of Oxford who penned Shakespeare's plays.
Budget:
$30M
US Gross:
$4.46M
Worldwide:
$15.4M
Starring
Rhys Ifans
Actor
Vanessa Redgrave
Actor
David Thewlis
Actor
Awards
Saturn Awards 2012
— Best Costume Design
Academy Awards 2012
— Best Costume Design
Key opinion
Anonymous is a visually opulent period drama that reimagines the authorship of Shakespeare's works through the lens of political conspiracy. While audiences and critics praise the high production values and strong performances, the film is polarized by its disregard for historical accuracy and its complex, fragmented narrative structure.
| Production | The film features impressive production design, utilizing lavish costumes and atmospheric period recreations to bring 16th-century England to life. | |
| Acting | Rhys Ifans delivers a compelling and layered performance as the Earl of Oxford, anchoring the film amidst its sprawling cast. | |
| Adaptation | The film’s historical premise is a work of pure fiction that prioritizes sensational conspiracy theories over factual or academic integrity. | |
| Editing | The multi-layered flashback structure divides viewers; some find it a sophisticated way to manage the timeline, while others perceive it as incoherent and confusing. | |
| Screenplay | Opinions on the screenplay are split, with some appreciating the dramatic, intrigue-filled plot and others criticizing its characterization of Shakespeare as a cartoonish villain. |