Johnny Depp starred as John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester in this adaptation of a play written by Stephen Jeffreys, who also wrote the screenplay. Directed by Laurence Dunmore (his directorial debut), The Libertine is set in the 17th century. It tells the tale of the poet, John Wilmot, who in real life died at the age of 33 following years of alcohol abuse combined with syphilis caught through his promiscuous lifestyle, after which he received critical acclaim for his works. The plot has King Charles II (John Malkovich) asking Wilmot to compose a play for the French Ambassador. As a result he meets actress, Elizabeth Barry (Samantha Morton) who later becomes his mistress. Wilmot’s play does not however meet with the approval of the King with dire consequences. Tom Hollander plays Etherege, Johnny Vegas plays Sackville, Rosamund Pike plays Elizabeth Malet and Rupert Friend plays Downs.

Release / Airing: 18/11/2005