Watch The Trials of Oscar Wilde

The Trials of Oscar Wilde, released in 1960, is a British drama film directed by Ken Hughes. The movie is based on the true story of renowned playwright and author Oscar Wilde and his infamous trial for homosexuality. Peter Finch, acclaimed actor of the time, plays the role of Oscar Wilde, a flamboyant and witty writer who has already gained critical acclaim for his work. Yvonne Mitchell plays his estranged wife, Constance, who was unaware of his homosexuality, and James Mason plays the role of Sir Edward Carson, a prominent lawyer.

The movie is set in Victorian London, where Oscar Wilde is leading a luxurious lifestyle, with frequent visits to the theater, lavish parties, and extravagant clothing. However, his life takes a drastic turn after he meets Lord Alfred Douglas, played by John Fraser, a young and charming man who leads Oscar down the path of homosexuality.

Their relationship becomes a source of scandal, and Wilde begins to face legal repercussions when he accuses Lord Alfred's father, the Marquess of Queensbury, of libel for accusing him of being a homosexual. However, when the Marquess presents evidence to prove his allegations, Wilde finds himself charged with sodomy and gross indecency.

What follows is a dramatic and emotional trial, where Oscar Wilde's wit and intelligence are put to the test as he defends his lifestyle against mounting evidence. The movie shows the painful process that Wilde and his family go through as they try to fight the charges and clear his name.

The Trials of Oscar Wilde is a remarkable film, well-directed and beautifully acted, with Finch giving a standout performance as the titular character. The movie does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of Oscar Wilde's life, including the brutality of the prison system and the stigma against homosexuality in Victorian England. The story is engaging and deeply moving, highlighting the injustice faced by Wilde during his trial and the societal restrictions he faced as a homosexual.

The movie was created during a time when homosexuality was still illegal in Britain, and the movie's release sparked significant public debate on the subject. It is a biographical drama that has stood the test of time and continues to be celebrated by audiences and critics alike.

In conclusion, The Trials of Oscar Wilde is a compelling movie that tells the story of one of the world's most celebrated playwrights and authors. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the LGBTQ+ community, the Victorian era, or those who appreciate well-made biographical dramas.

The Trials of Oscar Wilde is a 1960 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 3 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.