Could William Shakespeare have been suffering from writers block while creating Romeo & Juliet? This is just one scenario screenwriter Tom Stoppard touches upon in this often brilliant film from director John Madden (Mrs. Brown).

Joseph Fiennes plays Shakespeare, a remarkable writer who gets a timely dose of inspiration from a beautiful woman played by (Gwyneth Paltrow). Stoppard has created a wonderfully witty script full of humor and inventive dialogue. The performances are outstanding. Fiennes is completely charismatic and energetic. The beautiful Paltrow has finally received a role worthy of her talents. The film also features brilliant turns by Geoffrey Rush, Ben Affleck, Rupert Everett and Judi Dench, just to name a few.

This phenomenal collaboration between writer Stoppard and director Madden has given me a new found respect for William Shakespeare, a man whose work I've always had a hard time grasping. Chances are, you'll have a huge smile on your face throughout the film--I know I did.