The Libertine

British historical drama from 2005, marking the directorial debut of Laurence Dunmore, based on the play by Stephen Jeffreys, portrays the life of John Wilmot, 2nd Earl of Rochester (Johnny Depp), a 17th-century poet and satirist known for his debauched lifestyle. After being recalled from exile by King Charles II (John Malkovich), Rochester immerses himself in a world of drinking and debauchery with his "Merry Gang" friends. He hires a thieving street boy, Alcock (Richard Coyle), as his servant and mentors the unsuccessful actress Elizabeth Barry (Samantha Morton), teaching her the art of acting. A romantic relationship develops between them, but Barry remains independent and ambitious. The king commissions Rochester to write a play honoring the French ambassador, but he produces a provocative satire, "Sodom," mocking the king, leading to his disgrace and flight. Contracting syphilis, Rochester hides under the alias Dr. Bendo, selling fake medicines. Ultimately, despite his physical decline, he delivers a speech in Parliament opposing the Exclusion Act, supporting the king. He then returns home, dying surrounded by his wife, Elizabeth Malet (Rosamund Pike), and mother, converting to Christianity before his death.