Young William Shakespeare is forced to stage his latest comedy, 'Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate's Daughter', before it's even written. When lovely noblewoman Viola de Lesseps auditions for a role, they fall into forbidden love — and Shakespeare's play finds a new life (and title). As their relationship intensifies, the comedy soon transforms into tragedy.

Cast

Joseph FiennesWill Shakespeare

Gwyneth PaltrowViola De Lesseps

Geoffrey RushPhilip Henslowe

Tom WilkinsonHugh Fennyman

Judi DenchQueen Elizabeth