The Libertine Reviews

At the time of its release, it seemed to be a rather minor effort for Johnny Depp but if you compare it to what he has been making during the last 4 years, it was actually not bad at all which is actually rather sad. Anyway, since I was still a huge Johnny Depp fan, I had to watch this movie at some point. So, sure, it was not one of his best movies but there were some pretty good things though. For example, the whole thing looked quite gorgeous and Depp was, as usual, very good. But, eventually, to be honest, I wasn't really captivated by the story. I mean, I do have a weak spot for dark characters who happens to be a little bit perverted but, after the Marquis de Sade, it all seems like a déjà-vu. Still, it is obvious that Johnny Depp had some fun playing such a dark and immoral character (Captain Jack Sparrow seems pretty much like an innocent creature compared to the Earl of Rochester). To conclude, even though it is rather obscure and not really an amazing feature, I still think worth a look though, especially if you are interested in Johnny Depp’s work.

"The entire piece has been devised with the French in mind. In France, fornication in the streets with total strangers is compulsory."

The Libertine is a criminally underrated drama set during the 17th century. The film tells the fascinating latter life tale of the 2nd Earl of Rochester, John Wilmot (Depp).

During the period in which he lived, society was obsessed with everything sex related; whores were all over the streets, men cheated on their wives at brothels, etc. Wilmot was a man who was completely obsessed with sex (as told in the opening prologue; he is up for it "at any time" and with any gender).

The film examines the passionate romance Wilmot had with a young actress named Elizabeth Barry (Morton), and the phase Wilmot had with poetry.

Johnny Depp's performance is sensational like always; he plays his role to perfection, displaying depth and serious talent. Samantha Morton and Rosamund Pike are both extremely good as well; they both portray love interests for Wilmot. John Malkovich is also thrown into the mix here as well, playing yet another memorable character.

The Libertine is a very unique, one-of-a-kind movie. Throughout the running time, there is non-stop explicit sexual dialogue and frequent uses of quite shocking words (the c-word is used very often here), not to mention very sensual scenes including brief nudity and very mature themes.

Wilmot's story is one of self-betrayal, squandered talents and unrealised potential. If he had focused more on realising his potential as a writer, he could have been another Shakespeare. Instead his life was dedicated to sex and little else.

The Libertine is not a movie for all tastes. Many scenes include sickening dialogue, disturbing imagery and explicit language. Many people dislike it due to this fact, but this was the lifestyle of the people during the 17th century; alcohol, sex, bad language.

Having said that, the film is extremely funny at times and has a great deal of surprises along the way. The fascinating storytelling makes this very worthwhile viewing. I recommend the movie; it's very entertaining, very poignant and very well made.

"I don't mean to upset people, but I must speak my mind. For what's in my mind is far more interesting than what's outside my mind."

The Libertine is one of Johnny Depp's finest performances, and overall a simply brilliant movie. From it's more disturbing yet striking scenes to it's powerful and unique story; I couldn't wish for anything more from this movie.

Taking place in the 17th century, The Libertine centres around the life of John Wilmont, aka the Earl of Rochester. He is a corrupt, drunk and sexually active cynical poet, who has a distinctive love for the theatre. As the film goes on, we are witnessed to his reputation of being liked by the ladies, drinking, shagging and his sexual play. This usually wouldn't be a movie that I would choose to watch, but Johnny Depp made it an instant must-see for me, and I am now very happy and pleasantly surprised with my verdict.

Johnny Depp has given one of his best performances in The Libertine, once again showing what an incredible actor he is and what versatility he has between his various acting roles. John Malkovich has another exceptional movie added to his filmography, while there were other great performances from Rosamund Pike, Jack Davenport and Samantha Morton.

I highly recommend this movie, even just to see for yourself what it is like. I can't guarantee that everyone will like it, but it should at least be an interesting experience.