This is the story of how the great writer Oscar Wilde's life went bad because of his relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas. Oscar Wilde (Stephen Frey) was one of the leading writers, wits, and public speakers of the Victorian era. He was married with two children, but had a secret: he was a closeted gay man. When he met Lord Alfred (Bosie) Douglas (Jude Law) he fell in love and threw caution to the wind. It was dangerous in those days because homosexuality was against the law in late 19th Century England. The two men began a torrid and rather kinky affair that was conducted indiscreetly but both men thought they were bulletproof. They were not.
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Wilde has a series of run-ins with Bosie's father, John Douglas the Marquess of Queensbury who is played by Tom Wilkinson. He objects strenuously to his son's relationship with Wilde and not because the latter is Irish although that did not help matters. The Marquess publicly humiliates and insults Wilde after the opening of "The Importance of Being Earnest." Wilde's triumph was ruined by his lover's father and in a fit of pique; he sues him for criminal libel, which was a terrible mistake. The civil trial goes badly for Wilde as it reveals his sexual orientation. He loses the trial and the feckless Bosie as well.
Wilde's life unravels after the libel trial. He is tried and convicted of gross indecency, and serves a term in prison for the crime of being gay. Constance Wilde (Jennifer Ehle) visits her husband in jail and vows to stick by him if he never sees Douglas again. Like a moth to the flame, Wilde does see Bosie again after his release but they are once again met with scorn and disapproval by their respective families and friends. The two break up.
"Wilde" is a well-done biopic and met with critical acclaim upon its release. It tells a tragic story with wit, humor, and compassion. It is an excellent film.
Best part of story, including ending:
It is an excellent depiction of the prejudices of Victorian Britain.
Best scene in story:
The big confrontation between Wilde and the Marquess of Queensbury because of its high drama and importance.
Opinion about the main character:
Oscar Wilde was a brilliant man but he was arrogant and didn't the rules of ordinary society applied to him. That was his tragedy; today he could live his life as he saw fit.
