The Libertine is a 2004 British-American drama film directed by Laurence Dunmore and starring Johnny Depp as John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester. The film is based on Stephen Jeffreys' play of the same name.
The movie centers around the life of John Wilmot, a notorious womanizer and drunkard who lived during the 17th century in England. He was known for his scandalous behavior and for pushing the boundaries of acceptability in his writing and his personal life.
Despite his wild behavior, Wilmot was also a talented poet and playwright. He gained fame and notoriety in his lifetime for his satirical and risque writing, but his work was often censored or banned due to its explicit content.
As the story progresses, Wilmot's behavior becomes increasingly destructive and dangerous. He becomes addicted to alcohol and drugs, and begins to spiral out of control. His relationships with women become more abusive and he becomes estranged from his wife, Elizabeth (played by Rosamund Pike).
Despite his tragic downfall, Wilmot's work continued to gain critical acclaim after his death. The film portrays his legacy as a complicated one, highlighting both the brilliance of his art and the destructive nature of his personal life.