Orlando

In 1600, on her deathbed, Queen Elizabeth I grants a substantial tract of land and a castle to Orlando, an androgynous nobleman. The unusual condition attached to this gift is a vow: "Do not fade. Do not wither. Do not grow old," reflecting the queen's affection for Orlando.

By 1610, Orlando falls in love with Sasha, the daughter of a Russian diplomat, despite being engaged to an English noblewoman. The Earl of Moray warns Orlando about the risks of this liaison, but he chooses love, leading to the end of his engagement.

Orlando's happiness shatters when he witnesses Sasha sharing a kiss with a Russian sailor. Although Sasha insists it was a mistake, she ultimately decides to leave with the melting ice, leaving Orlando heartbroken.

By 1650, Orlando retreats into solitude within his castle, spending an entire week asleep and losing himself in poetry and art for centuries. In this state, he seeks recognition from renowned poets, but faces disdain that leads him to sever ties.

In 1700, Orlando takes on the role of the English ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. He forms a significant friendship with The Khan, sharing meals and camaraderie, but is soon entangled in the tensions brought on by the arrival of Archduke Harry.

As war looms, Orlando is drawn into battle, witnessing the brutality and chaos of conflict. This harrowing experience profoundly impacts Orlando's perspective on life and the nature of existence.

After suffering a week of unconsciousness post-battle, Orlando awakens to discover that he has transformed into a woman. Now known as Lady Orlando, she returns to her estate in 1750 but finds herself embroiled in lawsuits over her inheritance due to her gender.

Archduke Harry offers Lady Orlando marriage to restore her respectability, but she declines the proposal, inciting indignation among her peers. This refusal echoes her determination to forge her own identity.

Orlando continues her journey as a poet, crossing paths with significant literary figures like Swift and Pope. Through these encounters, she becomes acutely aware of the misogyny prevalent in their perspectives on women and the arts.

In the centuries that follow, Orlando falls in love with American adventurer, Shelmerdine. Despite believing they are soulmates, Orlando feels the heavy weight of political obligations, as the British crown insists she must bear an heir to maintain her estate.

As the story unfolds into the early 1990s, Orlando, now a mother, seeks a publisher for her literary work. A literary editor, played by Heathcote Williams, tells her that her efforts are 'quite good,' marking a notable high point in her literary journey.

In a serene moment with her daughter, Orlando reflects on her extraordinary life. She effortlessly points to an angel in the sky, encapsulating the surreal beauty and richness of her experiences through the ages.