Bill

A delicious comedy, very well acted. A fantasy about the Bard, larded with historical hints and figures. I loved it. The cast used to having their own TV show, are thoroughly in sync with each other. A joy to watch.

I have noticed that many of the more negative reviews are (wrongly) comparing this film to Monty Python. My advice is that if you do decide to watch this, it may help you to know its origins lie in a very fun British children's show, and NOT in Pythonesque humour. The only real similarities Between this team and Python are that the cast is British, and that many of the actors play multiple roles. All fair comparisons end there. The team that made this film have never tried to emulate Python, but instead are extending their own style developed over many years of producing work for kids. I enjoyed it - not really a laugh out loud film, but definitely a steady stream of sniggering. You do have to watch closely for the constant stream of mini-japes, many of which are juvenile, conversely some of them are subtle and smart. If you are looking for Python you will most likely be disappointed, but if you are looking for something different that walks a rather sweet line between childish & broad, and occasionally subtle & clever, you will probably get a kick out of this.

I have just watched this movie on Amazon Prime. I had never heard of it but it was free to view so I thought I would give it a try. I ended up watching it till the end (plus the credits) and really enjoyed it. It was amusing rather than funny but I laughed out loud a few times. It is a bit silly so is not recommended if you like serious films. However, if you like Monty Python and Blackadder you should like this film. I will not say anything about the story as if you are reading this you are obviously on IMDb so will probably have read the plot and a few other reviews. It is definitely worth watching and surprisingly good. More so if you are from the UK as other nationalities will miss a lot of the jokes and humour. It is also full of quotes from Shakespeare, Easter Eggs and at least one reference to a certain science fiction movie.

Anyone familiar with BBC'S children's TV show Horrible Histories will be familiar with the format and they take it a stage further by giving it the the big screen treatment in Bill. The plot is set in Elizabethan times with Philip of Spain set to invade whilst a young Bill Shakespeare leaves Stratford to head to London to make his name and fortune. Really you don't need to know to much more, th gags come quick, and there are plenty of laughs for all. The added bonus of a couple of high profile performers in husband and wife Damian Lewis and Helen Mcrorry only add to this fun for all the family film. 8/10

"Bill" is a funny movie that appeals on two levels. As an adult, I like comedy that refers to real historic events and people. But I imagine children will also enjoy the silly acting and more obvious jokes. I am an old fan of Monty Python and see similarities to that style. However, my review is as an American who has never seen "Horrible Histories" on British TV, nor was familiar with any of the actors. It appears some reviewers get hung up on that relationship. But I feel this movie entertains quite well on its own merits.