The Libertine *1/2
Cast: Johnny Depp, Samantha Morton, John Malkovich, Rosamund Pike
Director: Laurence Dunmore
Running Length: 2:10
MPAA Classification: R

"The Libertine" is the story of John Wilmot, the Second Earl of Rochester. He was a one time hero of the British Navy, and an amusement of King Charles II (Malkovich). Wilmot had a tendency to write obscene satires, and that got him exiled from London. Charles says that he can come back if he lays low for a while, but Wilmot is not one to lay low.

Wilmot is a sex addict, and venerial diseases will be his ultimate downfall. His wife Elizabeth Malet (Pike) puts up with it, but is clearly not happy. When Wilmot meets Elizabeth Barry (Morton), he decides to teach her how to act, since she is horrible. This infatuation leads to love, at least on his part. Unfortunately for him, he is not a likeable guy -- let alone loveable, and he has no chance with her.

There is more to the film, but it all revolves around the downward spiral of Wilmot. It is not an enjoyable movie, and it is not a very good movie. This film sat on the shelves for over a year for a reason, and not even Johnny Depp can save it.