One of those hidden gems from the late 90's

Based on the wonderful Oscar Wilde play. With a wonderful cast that carries it.

At 1hr 40mins it goes by at a nice pace. And is far better film that it's IMDb 6.8 rating suggests (I'd say mid 7's for this one for me).

Wonderful charismatic central performance from Rupert Everett (who got a few awards and nominations during the 1999/2000 award season). He was going through a bit of career high at this time with his film stealing turn in My Best Friend's Wedding in 1997, although he's never gone onto the heights that late 90's run showed he could have as a leading man. He's done some good supporting roles in recent years.

But also the wonderful Julianne Moore (who also won a award or two, and got nominations for this film) is the equal of Everett and with a wonderful English accent. Play's the "villain" of the film but gives the character a lot of heart. She was coming off her Oscar Nominated role for Boogie Nights, and I'd say this was her hottest run as a potential leading lady around the late 90's time. She had Big Lebowski, An Ideal Husband, Magnolia and The End of the Affair (which also got Oscar Nominated for in 1999) to round out the decade. She on a roll.

Also very good performances from the always great Cate Blanchett (she was on her way up at this time, she was coming off her Oscar Nominated and breakthrough role of Elizabeth and then The Talented Mr Ripley to finish off the 90s), Minnie Driver (who is really charming in this) and always reliable Jeremy Northam to round out the main cast. The late Peter Vaughn also deserves a mention as Everett trusted Butler in a small role.

They definitely had a decent budget for this as it shows on screen. It's not a classic film but considering the cast it's well worth checking out. I think this is Everett's best performance and maybe one of Julianne Moore's most underrated.