This six hour mini-series really catches the flavor of Elizabethan England. Tim Curry is a surprising choice as Shakespeare because one expects a more traditional hero. Curry played the doctor on the submarine Red October in the movie of the same name, but his characterization is much stronger and more appealing in this movie. Ian McShane as Christopher Marlowe is interesting, but Nicholas Clay as the Earl of Southampton is breathtakingly handsome and steals every scene he is in--no, he doesn't have to steal them, they belong to him. Shakespeare's long debated sexuality is handled well in this movie although the implication that he and Southampton were homosexual lovers is definitely there. This movie is not as fast-paced as "Shakespeare in Love." It seemed longer than six hours long, but it kept me coming back for more each evening of the week. I know quite a bit about Shakespeare and this movie did not disappoint me. It was fun where it should be fun and serious where it should be serious. If you love Shakespeare, this one is probably for you!
