Watch An Ideal Husband

An Ideal Husband is a romantic comedy-drama that was released in 1999. Directed by Oliver Parker and based on the 1895 play of the same name by Oscar Wilde, the film stars Rupert Everett, Julianne Moore, and Peter Vaughan. The story takes place in London during the late 19th century and focuses on the lives of Sir Robert Chiltern (played by Jeremy Northam), a successful politician, and his wife Lady Gertrude Chiltern (played by Cate Blanchett), a highly respected and influential socialite. Sir Robert is considered to be the embodiment of the perfect husband and politician, due to his unwavering principles and impeccable reputation.

However, their perfect world is threatened when the couple is confronted by the scheming Mrs. Laura Cheveley (played by Julianne Moore), a former acquaintance of Sir Robert's who blackmails him with a dark secret from his past. With the help of his charming old friend, Lord Arthur Goring (played by Rupert Everett), Sir Robert must navigate his way out of a dire situation that could ruin his career and his marriage.

Lord Goring is a dandy who lives off his father's wealth and is often seen as a careless and frivolous individual. However, he possesses a sharp mind and impeccable wit that are put to use when he intervenes to save Sir Robert's reputation. Goring is also secretly in love with Sir Robert's sister, Mabel (played by Minnie Driver), and tries to win her heart while helping his friend.

Throughout the film, the characters' relationships and motivations are tested as they face moral dilemmas and personal conflicts. The film explores themes such as the corrupting influence of power, the hypocrisy of high society, and the importance of forgiveness and redemption.

The film's visuals are stunning and capture the elegance and opulence of Victorian-era London. The sets and costume designs are elaborate and intricate, transporting the audience to a bygone era. The film's score, composed by Charlie Mole, is also noteworthy and adds to the film's romantic and dramatic tones.

The performances in An Ideal Husband are exceptional, with each actor delivering a nuanced and memorable portrayal of their respective characters. Rupert Everett's Lord Goring steals the show with his charismatic and witty presence, while Julianne Moore's villainous Mrs. Cheveley adds a layer of intrigue and tension to the story. Cate Blanchett's Lady Gertrude and Jeremy Northam's Sir Robert also give powerful performances, showcasing the complexity and vulnerability of their characters.

Overall, An Ideal Husband is a well-crafted film that combines elements of romance, drama, and comedy to tell a compelling story about the consequences of deceit and the power of forgiveness. The film is a faithful adaptation of Oscar Wilde's classic play, and its timeless themes and stunning visuals continue to captivate audiences to this day.