Billy Shakespeare (2014) User Reviews

Hilarious comedy

[mccoytwice-965-527333 · 9/10 · 3 April 2014]

Billy Shakespeare is funny all the way through with intelligent use of Shakespearian themes which should amuse scholars and those totally ignorant of anything Shakespere. The casting is perfect. Jason D. Johnson is a wonderful modern bard with all the idiosyncrasies portrayed of a genius literary talent dealing with today's real life. Philip David Collins is brilliant in his portrayal of Wilma - the other woman...woman? Catherine Pilafas is a delightful partner and support to Billy, the bard and the wars between the two would-be lovers are hilarious. I am impressed with the direction by Voorhees who maintains the integrity of true camp throughout. This is not just a feel-good film; it is deep, touches honest emotions, considers true modern life in a transvestite world all wrapped in the drama of the literary past. For this very low-budget indie film I have lots of applause. I hope Voorhees considers entering this into indie festivals - it should do well.

Billy Shakespeare

[lovewith2 · 9/10 · 9 April 2014]

Deborah Voorhees has done very well in her choice picks for the lead characters. This witty comedy is very modern in it time frame. Jason D Johnson and Phillp Collins definitely carried this film, they were the glue. I enjoyed the complex emotions and confusions of the actors. There are plenty of laughs especially the bedroom scene. Billy's expressions were great to watch, his eyes said much (Betty Davis eyes) wonderfully gifted. The drag queen was riotous. Couldn't help but feel for her pain. These two actors worked very well together the energy was marvelous.

In the bedroom scene there was no nudity nor vulgarity yet it came across clearly and extremely funny and a bit sad. But it was hilarious. I just loved it!

I think this film is so relative to our times in this century. Because of this fact I think it will be a hit in more ways then one. Deborah Voorhees has a talented gift. I am curious to see what her next movie will be like?

Billy Shakespeare--great film

[nataliew151 · 10/10 · 4 April 2014]

Billy Shakespeare is one of the greatest films I have seen in a long time. It is so well written and entertaining. The characters are colorful, charming, and endearing. The movie made me laugh and warmed my heart and also made me think. It held my interest very well. This movie is great for people who love Shakespeare and also great for people who aren't big Shakespeare fans. It's a movie made for anyone who wants to feel good and laugh. I can watch this film over and over again without getting bored of it. Every time I watch it I find something new about it that is clever and funny. Everyone that I know that has watched this movie has loved it just as much as I love it. Parts of the film are deep and really touch the heart. When watching the film you will feel like you know the characters and really care about them. This movie will definitely be one of my all time favorites.

The premise for this film is absolutely brilliant! Sooo very clever!

[worldsofwoodward · 10/10 · 27 March 2014]

This movie had me in stitches from beginning to end! And yet it's so much more than just a delightful comedy with the power to lift your spirit and make you laugh. There are moments of surprising depth that will take you off-guard and warm your heart, as well. The dialogue is clever, witty, and inventive, flowing naturally from one uproariously entangled scene to the next. The chemistry between the lead actors is palpable. Jason D. Johnson (Billy), is so charismatic he practically leaps off the screen, his performance raised from excellent to superb by the spot-on acting of the Always Flamboyant Wilma, and Usually Sensible Anne. So well done, indeed, Voorhees Films! You earned your ten star rating! Highly recommend!

A Fine Accomplishment, All Right

[MHPrice · 10/10 · 30 April 2014]

An enthusiastic nod to Deborah Voorhees' BILLY Shakespeare -- long in development, and more than worth the wait. I had read an early draft of the screenplay and found it promising as both a celebration of Shakespeare and an engaging "what if?" premise with a satirical edge. The delivery on the promise exceeds all my expectations. Jason D. Johnson's interpretation of the title role is a marvel of emotional complexity. The element of comedy is at once rambunctious and bittersweet. A fine accomplishment overall, and a testament to the ability of a perceptive writer-director not only to visualize a striking job of storytelling, but also to realize the vision with accuracy and inventive passion. An overriding talent of rare ability. IMDb link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2296665/

A pleasure for Shakespeare lovers.

[optictopic · 10/10 · 27 March 2014]

This is a great film for those who are well versed in Shakespearean verse. The nuances of the true Bard's life are referenced throughout the film. The dialogue is witty and timely. This was obviously a labor of love. Deborah Voorhees, the writer and director of Billy Shakespeare has accomplished what many independent film makers strive to accomplish, to see their story through from conception to delivery. The main characters Jason D Johnson, Catharine Pilafas and Phillip Collins are all continuing to pursue their love of cinema. Their performances in this film have become a springboard for them and others involved in this production to continue following their respective artistic passions. Whether or not Billy Shakespeare is gay, straight or bisexual is secondary to whether or not a modern day Shakespeare would have his true voice distorted by the overly dominant control systems of today's corporate media makers.