Gwyneth Paltrow was born on September 27, 1972. "Shakespeare in Love" was released on December 20, 1998. At the time of the film's release, she was 26 years old. During the filming, which took place in 1997, she would have been around 25 years old. Paltrow's performance in the film earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress.

"Shakespeare in Love" is a fictional romantic comedy-drama that imagines a young William Shakespeare in the late 16th century as he develops the play "Romeo and Juliet." While the film incorporates real historical figures and events, the story itself is not based on true events. It creatively blends historical context with imaginative storytelling, exploring themes of love, art, and the challenges faced by a playwright in that era. The film won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture, highlighting its impact and popularity.

"Shakespeare in Love" won 7 Oscars at the 71st Academy Awards in 1999. The film received awards for Best Picture, Best Actress (Gwyneth Paltrow), Best Supporting Actress (Judi Dench), Best Original Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, and Best Makeup. Despite being a romantic comedy, it was recognized for its artistic achievements and storytelling, making it a notable film in Oscar history.

"Shakespeare in Love" was controversial primarily for its fictional portrayal of William Shakespeare and its blending of historical fact with creative license. Critics argued that it oversimplified Shakespeare's life and relationships, particularly the romanticized depiction of his relationship with Viola de Lesseps. Additionally, the film's comedic and theatrical elements, along with its focus on gender roles and class dynamics, sparked debates about the accuracy and authenticity of its representation of Elizabethan society.