Sylvia (2003)

Set against the backdrop of 1956's Cambridge, "Sylvia" embarks on a passionate and complex journey through the life of the brilliant but tormented American poet, Sylvia Plath (Gwyneth Paltrow). The narrative unfolds as she encounters Edward James "Ted" Hughes (Daniel Craig), a fellow poet whose genius captivates her even before their first meeting. Their shared love for words and each other leads to a whirlwind romance, culminating in marriage. However, beneath the façade of their poetic union, Sylvia grapples with her placement in Ted's professional shadow. His fame and charisma, coupled with his handsome good looks, draw others towards him, intensifying Sylvia's struggle for individuality and leaving her yearning for her own writing career. The tantalizing question of Ted's fidelity further fuels Sylvia's insecurities, shrouding her in a cloud of doubt and despair. Balancing on the precipice of her fragile emotional state, Sylvia's life becomes a dance with her personal demons. Her past echoes with an attempted suicide, and her present is littered with the torment of her husband's perceived infidelity. As she oscillates between pain and anger, Sylvia manages to carve out a minor success for herself, penning a semi-autobiographical novel and a collection of well-received poems. In the face of their crumbling relationship and her deepening depression, Sylvia's creative genius begins to truly unfurl only when she and Ted separate. It's then that she dives into the dark recesses of her soul to write the fiercely brilliant poetry that would posthumously earn her a place amongst the literary greats. "Sylvia" is a compelling exploration of a gifted artist's struggle with love, betrayal, and mental illness, punctuated by her relentless quest for self-expression and recognition.

Sylvia is a drama movie featuring Gwyneth Paltrow and directed by Christine Jeffs.

Sylvia is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Plex Player.