The Laureate

The Laureate is a captivating drama/romantic film directed by William Nunez with a screenplay crafted by the director himself. In an enthralling setting of 1920s London, the film combines a genteelly sweeping romance with a pulsating slice of history, featuring an ensemble cast including Dianna Agron, Laura Haddock, and Julian Glover.

Set against the backdrop of the destructive First World War that brings about changes in societal norms and cultural landscapes, The Laureate centers its attention on the life of British poet Robert Graves, portrayed by Tom Hughes. This tale of passion, love, and the complexity of human relationships casts a spotlight on a specific time in his life and how it often intertwined with his artistic journey. Julian Glover is seen in a pivotal role, delivering an intensely-engaging performance, further enhancing the film's gravitas.

Laura Haddock brilliantly portrays Nancy Nicholson, Robert's wife, whilst Dianna Agron plays the role of a passionate American poet Laura Riding. The film displays an intricately complex love triangle that sketches the dynamics between the three characters. The backdrop of the roaring twenties in London perfectly encapsulates the societal taboos and the scandal that ensued around them, which sends ripples through the traditionalist society of that time.

Delving into the rich and complex personal lives of these poets, The Laureate offers an opportunity to see how these relationships influenced and heightened their creativity. Nunez builds up the intrigue by masterfully intertwining the personal and artistic realms of these characters. The film profoundly analyzes how personal life experiences and emotional ride travel through their pens, adding depth to their poetry.

Haddock’s emotionally charged performance, along with Agron’s portrayal of an ambitious and talented feminine poet in a patriarchal society, breathes life into Nunez’s depiction of these characters. Julian Glover, meanwhile, brings his veteran acting prowess to contribute a significant depth to the film’s narrative.

As per the direction and screenplay by Nunez, the film indeed explores some of the untold corners of literary history. The Laureate tastefully delves into the exploration of themes of love, creativity, monogamy, and societal norms, while simultaneously illuminating the path of these poets, who dared to defy convention. Nunez's meticulous attention to detail is reflected in the film's production design, imbued with the essence of the 20s, bringing authenticity to the narrative.

The cinematography in The Laureate is nothing short of phenomenal. The camera work and the visual aesthetic, combined with the beautifully designed sets, capture London's landscape from the 1920s, adding an extra level of realism to the plot. The lighting and the color tones used in the film further enhance the cinematic experience, contributing significantly to the narrative's mood and emotions.

The film's costume design is another aspect that deserves a special mention. The detailed outfits inspired by the era accurately capture the societal trends and the characters' personalities, adding depth to their depiction. They provide an essential visual clue about the characters' social standing and their attitude towards society's norms and mores at the time.

The music in the film plays a vital role too—it does not merely exist in the background, rather it intertwines deeply with the storytelling. Period music cues and the carefully composed soundtrack add a layer of emotion to the performances and scenes, significantly enhancing the entire viewing experience.

In summary, The Laureate, with its enthralling narrative and stellar performances, leaves a significant impact on the viewer. It is not just a film about a love-triangle, but a profound exploration of exalted human emotions, societal norms, and artistic struggles, all staged on the beautifully recreated stage of 1920s London. A must-watch for lovers of romantic dramas and those interested in the bohemian literary circles of the past.