The Libertine

In 17th century England, John Wilmot, the second Earl of Rochesterchester, lives a life of excess and hedonism, earning him a reputation as a libertine. He spends his days drinking, having sex, and engaging in witty banter with his friends, while his nights are filled with theatre performances and literary pursuits. Despite his degenerate lifestyle, Rochester is a brilliant poet and playwright, who eventually catches the eye of King Charles II. The king, impressed by Rochester's talents, asks him to write a play in honor of the French Ambassador's visit. Rochester obliges but submits a scathing satire that offends Charles, leading to his flight from London. Hiding in the countryside with his loyal friends by his side, Rochester continues to write and peddle phony medical treatments for women. When the king eventually tracks him down he is given a choice to return to his estate and wife, Elizabeth or stay and face his punishment. Rochester chooses his family and returns home, where he dies in bed surrounded by loved ones leaving behind not only his poetry but also a legacy of debauchery that continues to fascinate people even after his death

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Some movies that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as The Libertine include No Reservations, A Single Man, A Walk to Remember, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Pride & Prejudice, Stranger Than Fiction.

The Libertine was released in theaters on September 16, 2004.