Guy Fawkes Day, 1892. Oscar Wilde goes to a performance of his controversial, banned play 'Salome'. The 'theatre' is a brothel and the players prostitutes. John The Baptist is played by Wilde's lover, Lord Alfred 'Bosey' Douglas. Wilde's interactions with some of the cast ignite Bosey's jealousy.
Written and directed by Ken Russell, this film is a play within a movie. The play is Salome, of course, and it is performed pretty much in its entirety (as far as I can tell. I haven't seen or read the play but the play in the movie seemed complete). It's done very well, with some great performances, especially Imogen Millais-Scott as Salome (and Rose). Glenda Jackson (perennially cast by Ken Russell) as Herodias (and Lady Alice) is also very good.
However, the top layer, the movie, is quite weak. Doesn't add anything to the play and really just serves as padding. The conclusion is quite random and pointless.
Overall, entertaining. Just don't expect anything from the non-play part of the plot.
Written and directed by Ken Russell, this film is a play within a movie. The play is Salome, of course, and it is performed pretty much in its entirety (as far as I can tell. I haven't seen or read the play but the play in the movie seemed complete). It's done very well, with some great performances, especially Imogen Millais-Scott as Salome (and Rose). Glenda Jackson (perennially cast by Ken Russell) as Herodias (and Lady Alice) is also very good.
However, the top layer, the movie, is quite weak. Doesn't add anything to the play and really just serves as padding. The conclusion is quite random and pointless.
Overall, entertaining. Just don't expect anything from the non-play part of the plot.