From those behind the Horrible Histories hit TV show comes Bill, a fabulous Shakespearean romp set during the playwright’s ‘lost years’ between Stratford (where he’s a failed lute player) and his inevitable success in London.

Capers abound as he encounters over 40 characters (played by six actors, with gusto) including famous names given radical makeovers, such as ninja spymaster Francis Walsingham, black-leathered, moustache-stroking Philip II of Spain and melancholy Christopher Marlowe (occasionally dressed as a vegetable).

The well-researched, clever silliness provides something for adults and children alike with witty and non-patronising jokes – a hallmark of this team’s continued success.

This quintessentially British film has mixed together the best bits from inspirations like Blackadder and Monty Python with a cheeky, imaginative approach to history and added song-and-dance.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Matthew Baynton, Simon Farnaby, Martha Howe-Douglas, Jim Howick, Laurence Rickard, Ben Willbond

DIRECTOR: Richard Bracewell

WRITERS: Laurence Rickard, Ben Willbond

SYNOPSIS: As all-round failure ‘Bill’ Shakespeare heads off to London to seek his fortune as an untested playwright, mischief is afoot in Spain with dastardly Philip II determined to reclaim his place as ruler of England.

A preview screening of Bill was kindly provided by Vertigo Films and Freuds.