Robert Downey Jnr. portrays "Merivel," an aspiring doctor who finds himself benefiting from fortunate circumstances. With Charles II (Sam Neill) reinstated as Britain’s monarch following Cromwell’s rule, and with a fondness for his dog, the doctor unexpectedly finds himself enjoying a life of indulgence at court. The king, known for his romantic pursuits, arranges for the physician to marry one of his former lovers in an attempt to quell rumors, but with the condition that he doesn't develop feelings for "Celia" (Polly Walker)—a directive that predictably fails. Subsequently, the king rescinds his generosity and banishes “Merivel,” just as a plague begins to spread. Could “Katharine” (Meg Ryan) offer him a chance at redemption? While there are moments of lightheartedness, much of the film feels like a lifeless depiction of life within a famously lively and unrestrained court, lacking in genuine enjoyment. Downey does engage with his role, but I felt he depended too heavily on the production design—the costumes and sets—to define his character or to convey how seriously he approached his profession. Sam Neill’s portrayal of the king comes across as stiff, and although the supporting actors embrace the film's tone to different extents, even this experienced group of British performers can't transform a disappointing project into something worthwhile. Historical accounts reveal that Charles II was not only a womanizer but also a generous benefactor; had the writers explored this aspect and elevated the story beyond a modern-day “Carry On” movie, they could have added substance to a narrative about people at a pivotal point in history. Period music by Henry Purcell appears on the soundtrack, and the film is visually appealing, yet ultimately it falls short of expectations.

Source on TMDB