Anonymous(2011)- User Reviews

I agree that it is a well-made movie, in spite of the entire controversy surrounding the storyline. Whether you believe Shakespeare to be god or not, the premise is intriguing, the history interesting, (even though historically flawed in spots), the costumes and setting captivating, and the acting superb. As an author myself, I was totally taken in by the few lines the Earl of Oxford spoke to his wife about the voices that came to him, which he could not stop. (Only a true writer understands that insanity). They come when he sleeps, when he wakes, when he sups...and only when he puts their words on parchment does he find peace - otherwise he'd go mad. Whether it was Edward de Vere who penned the words or Shakespeare himself, it's the message in the movie that words have the power to move the hearts of men and kingdoms. Sometimes you have to dig beyond the offensive to find the beauty within any creative work, even in a controversial movie such as this. The surprise ending was, like Cecil announced to the Earl, a tragedy and quite the shocker.