The Libertine

In 1660, England's cultural scene thrives with the return of Charles II. Thirteen years later, the king summons his friend John Wilmot, the second Earl of Rochester, from exile to prepare a play for the French ambassador. John, a morally corrupt and cynical poet, becomes infatuated with aspiring actress Elizabeth Barry, making her a star and his mistress. Despite his success, John falls into disfavor with the court. As he approaches death from syphilis and alcoholism at age 33, he experiences a late-life conversion to a religious man.