Billy Shakespeare

Billy Shakespeare is an audacious and imaginative cinematic work that takes place in a universe where William Shakespeare was never born until the present day. This bold independent film, directed by Deborah Voorhees and released in 2014, transplants one of history's greatest literary figures into the 21st century. Utilizing an imperfect but impulsive blend of romance, drama, and comedy, the movie explores the question: What would have happened if the most acclaimed playwright in English literature had to contend with the pressures and nonsenses of today’s era?

The film stars Jason D. Johnson taking on the titular role of Billy Shakespeare. He undertakes an extraordinary task of presenting a simultaneously innocent, naive version of the Bard, while also imbuing the character with the spark of genius that set the real Shakespeare apart. He is thrown headfirst into a contemporary, often shallow American culture, a setting far removed from the streets of Elizabethan London. The film's premise pivots on his struggle to fit into a modern world that doesn't quite understand or appreciate his literary flair.

Virginia native Catharine E. Jones stars as Julie, a drama teacher intrigued by Billy's uncanny talent and peculiarities. Her performance, filled with strength, skepticism, and an underlying sense of warmth, enriches the film. Jones brings an engaging dynamic to the screen, creating a compelling counterpoint to Johnson's Shakespeare.

Even though the idea of extracting one of the most iconic figures from the past and placing him in the present sounds like quite a gamble, the filmmakers handle it deftly. The screenplay of the movie weaves in elements of Shakespeare's famous plays, with their iconic lines and plot twists used throughout Billy's contemporary life in amusing yet profound ways.

The character of Billy Shakespeare interacts with the modern world creating comedic situations and parodying contemporary culture. But despite the obvious humor, the film also takes a stab at commenting on the commercialization of art, the dismissal of classical literature and theatre, and the ubiquity of reality television. It grapples with the question of whether our society would recognize genius, even if it came in the form of an eccentric dressed in Elizabethan clothing on the streets of Austin, Texas.

Phillip David Collins, on the other hand, gives a memorable performance as a smarmy reality TV producer, Ian Green. The overblown, cartoonish ego of his character is the perfect conflict generator for Billy. Ian’s character illustrates the modern world's hunger for salacious entertainment and its disregard for real poetic talent.

Notably, Voorhees, a former horror movie star turned director and writer, takes on the challenge of merging a period personality with modern instances. The director utilizes bold filmmaking techniques, with a particular emphasis on unconventional shot compositions and effective location scouting. Scenes are shot in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, providing a modern backdrop for this inventive tale. The screenplay, also by Voorhees, displays a sensational amalgam of Shakespeare's literary genius and comic culture shock moments.

Billy Shakespeare's delightful incorporation of the Bard's most famous lines, along with clever cultural critique, contribute to its unique charm. It mixes the literary acumen of Shakespeare's works with the slapstick humor of a fish-out-of-water situation, resulting in a film that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

The film serves not just as an often hilarious reinvention of a historical figure, but also as an engaging discussion about the role of high culture in our contemporary world. Billy Shakespeare is a compelling cinematic experience, irrespective of whether you're a fan of the Bard or simply looking for a different kind of comedy-drama. While its premise may seem wildly fantastical, it is grounded by strong performances, sharp writing, and, most importantly, a deep appreciation for one of literature's greatest contributors.

In conclusion, Billy Shakespeare is an imaginative twist to the modern romantic comedy, packed with unconventional humor, sharp wit, and poignant commentary about our society's perceptions of art and talent. The movie offers an engrossing exploration of how a man born out of time navigates the modern world, seemingly uninfluenced by the dramatic works he's destined to pen. The result is a warmly humorous, increasingly enchanting cinema experience that is destined to leave you smiling, all the while reigniting your love for Shakespearean literature.