Set against the backdrop of the succession of Queen Elizabeth I, and the Essex Rebellion against her, the story advances the theory that it was in fact Edward De Vere, Earl of Oxford who penned Shakespeare's plays.

Jamie Campbell Boweras Young Earl of Oxford
Rhys Ifansas Edward de Vere
David Thewlisas William Cecil
Joely Richardsonas Princess Elizabeth Tudor
Vanessa Redgraveas Queen Elizabeth I
Sebastian Armestoas Ben Jonson
Rafe Spallas William Shakespeare
Edward Hoggas Robert Cecil
Xavier Samuelas Earl of Southampton
Sam Reidas Earl of Essex
Anna Foerster