Rent Prick Up Your Ears (1987)

And Up Yours - Prick Up Your Ears review by Steve

Hollywood biopics in the studio era usually straighten out the personal relationships of famous people. This one revels in the naked truth. So the turbulent life and violent death of '60s playwright Joe Orton (Gary Oldman) concentrates more on his sexual promiscuity than his groundbreaking plays.

There's plenty about his casual hookups with young gay men. While there is something admirable in Orton's impudent provocation at a time when homosexuality could result in a jail sentence (he got sent down for defacing a library book) this is also quite a frank reflection on his narcissism.

Which led to his murder by his longtime partner (Alfred Molina), jealous of Orton's literary and sexual success. Oldman is inspired casting and his irascible, volatile rapport with Molina is a key strength. There is also an impression of permissive London during a decade of social change.

Despite the brutal killing, this is a comedy; something Orton may have appreciated. This is mainly due to the familiar whimsy of Alan Bennett's dialogue (from a biography by John Lahr) which typically gives quality support roles to the female actors. By the way, Wikipedia says 'ears' is an anagram.