Elizabeth Reviews

This superb period drama has everything going for it, and I am saddened that it didn't get more awards.

For one thing, the whole film is splendid for the eyes. A lot of care went into the scenery, cinematography and costumes and it showed. The music score was absolutely beautiful, dramatic in some parts and poignant in others. The screenplay is quite extraordinary, and the story while perhaps historically inaccurate, is still intriguing. The direction, while the least impressive element of the film, was still solid. The performances were flawless; Cate Blanchett was above mesmerising as Elizabeth, and she is supported by an outstanding cast that include Geoffrey Rush, Joseph Fiennes, Christopher Ecceleston and Richard Attenborough. All in all, sumptuously filmed, and pretty darn good. 10/10 Bethany Cox

Already 15 years ago, Cate Blanchett gave her breakthrough performance in this movie. Of course, since I’m a huge fan of her work, I was really eager to check this and, fortunately, I wasn’t disappointed. Indeed, first of all, the movie looked stunning. I mean, the sets, the costumes were just amazing and even though I’m not really a fan of costume dramas in general, I was really able to appreciate the work provided here. Thankfully, this movie was not only nice to look at, it also provided a fascinating story which was some kind of mix between a historical drama and a political thriller. Of course, you can always argue that the whole thing was not completely accurate but when you deal with some historical events that took place centuries ago, this argument is rather pointless if you ask me. Anyway, back in those days, it was nominated for the Best Picture at the Academy Awards but lost out from ‘Shakespeare in love’, one of the most controversial winners ever (the other losers were ‘Saving Private Ryan’, ‘The Thin Red Line’ and ‘Life is Beautiful’. Nowadays, not many people would argue that ‘Shakespeare…’ really deserved this prize). What remains is that Cate Blanchett was really impressive in this, she became overnight one of the best actresses of her generation and she has consolidated her career ever since with some smart choices and other brilliant performances. Basically, it was the start of a stunning career (the next Meryl Streep?). To conclude, it is a very good costume drama, probably one of the best in this genre and it is is definitely worth a look.

Elizabeth is one of my all-time favorite films. It has everything a historical drama lover could ask for. Love, betrayal, corruption and beautiful costumes.

Cate Blanchett won a Golden Globe and was nominated for an oscar for her performance as Elizabeth and rightly so. She was very convincing as the young queen who must be powerful and strong on the outside but feels unsure of herself and weak at times behind closed doors.

Geoffrey Rush, of course, was fantastic as Sir Francis Walsingham. I haven't seen a Geoffrey Rush performance, yet, that hasn't been above par. Also, Joseph Fiennes was perfect as the handsome and charming Lord Dudley who may or may not be after crown himself.

Overall, despite some factual flaws, a beautiful film worthy of a spot on my DVD shelf. Bravo!