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Stage Beauty
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Metascore
64 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 38 Critics What's this?

User Score
8.3 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 19 Ratings

Your Score
10 out of 10
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  • Starring: Billy Crudup, Claire Danes
  • Summary: Set in 1660's England, this is the story of the first female actor to appear legally in England and the last male actor to make his career by playing women.

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 38
  3. Negative: 0 out of 38
  1. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Ray Bennett
    90
    Those who thought "Shakespeare In Love" was as good as it gets in intelligent costume romantic comedy will find that director Richard Eyre and writer Jeffrey Hatcher have taken the form to a higher level.
  2. The New Republic
    Reviewed by: Stanley Kauffmann
    90
    Crudup is whole. He creates the man who has pride in what he does, who is suddenly stripped of the work and the pride; and who makes his way, somewhat painfully, to another sort of pride. His story is a small but acute poignancy in the history of the theater, and Crudup realizes it completely.
  3. TV Guide
    Reviewed by: Angel Cohn
    60
    The film is an intriguing and hugely theatrical experience whose effectiveness is greatly enhanced by gorgeous period costumes and set design.

See all 38 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 1 out of 14
  1. JayH.
    10
    This movie was brilliant. I wasn't sure if I was going to like it because I don't always enjoy period films involving Shakespeare, bt wow. This had my attention early on in the film, and pulled me for a memorable ride. Billy Crudup and Claire Danes were perfect as the leads. They had such an electric chemistry, and just worked well with each other. Crudup especially gave such an excellent performance, I'm disappointed he didn't get an Oscar nomination, at the very least. Stage Beauty funny, insightful, smart, witty, refreshing. Defintiely a must see.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  2. roxw.
    10
    Billy Crudup deserved an Oscar. The depth and development of his character is a rare event in Hollywood. So rare, in fact, many critics and viewers are unable to recognize a performance that sparkles with nuance. The chemistry between Crudup and Danes is electrifying. A great underrated film.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  3. eecummings
    9
    This is a film I can watch again and again. Billy Crudup and Claire Danes are both tremendously talented and this film is a great vehicle for them. Their chemistry is real (intense and sizzling). Both these Yanks pull of the British accents with ease. The story is interesting, the pace is quick, the music is well chosen and the supporting cast is excellent. I like the ambiguous ending but have no doubt that Maria's great love will save Ned.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes

See all 14 User Reviews

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