Roland Emmerich works from his meatiest and most sophisticated script yet, the work of John Orloff -- then again, we are talking about the director of "Independence Day," "The Day After Tomorrow" and "2012." And all the rich period detail is in place, alongside the kind of big, sweeping aerial shots you'd expect from the maker of blockbusters.
Edward takes in these performances with a detached demeanor, but internally he's seething with conflict -- with the thrill of seeing his words brought to life, as well as the frustration of not being able to bask in the adulation. Anyone who comes into contact with him knows how devastatingly verbal he can be, though, in both seduction and confrontation. It's a thrilling, surprising performance from Ifans, who's probably best known for comedy.